Nollywood Star Deyemi Okanlawon Reveals Why He Quit Acting in 2019 Over 'Nonsense' Pay and Lack of Fulfillment

Prominent Nigerian actor Deyemi Okanlawon has opened up about a pivotal moment in his career, revealing why he briefly walked away from the silver screen in 2019. Speaking on a recent episode of the CreativiTea podcast, the movie star disclosed that he reached a breaking point due to a combination of inadequate financial compensation and a profound lack of professional fulfillment. Okanlawon did not mince words when describing his situation at the time, stating that he found both the work and the pay to be "nonsense," leading him to re-evaluate his path in the entertainment industry.

During the interview, Okanlawon expressed deep frustration with the prevailing standards in Nollywood, suggesting that the industry often prioritizes "noise" and sensationalism over artistic quality. He emphasized that his decision to transition into acting was driven by a desire for excellence, noting, "I didn’t leave 9-5 work to come and do mediocre work." The actor shared that when the roles available to him failed to ignite his passion or meet his professional standards, he found it increasingly difficult to remain committed to the craft, sparking a personal career crisis.

Faced with these challenges, Okanlawon made the strategic choice to return to a traditional 9-5 corporate role in 2019. This move was prompted by the need for stability and a sense of purpose that he felt was missing from his acting projects at the time. By returning to the corporate sector, he sought to regain his footing and ensure his efforts were being rewarded appropriately, rather than continuing to struggle in an environment that he felt rewarded mediocrity over substantive talent.

Okanlawon’s candid revelations shed light on the systemic issues regarding talent compensation and production quality within the Nigerian film industry. His story serves as a reminder of the personal and financial pressures faced even by well-known figures in the creative arts. While he has since remained a significant presence in the industry, his reflections on his 2019 hiatus highlight the ongoing struggle for actors to find a balance between professional passion and economic reality in a rapidly evolving media landscape.