The Nigerian film industry, also known as Nollywood, has been facing a tragic trend this year with the loss of both veteran and promising actors.
Hope Omenihu Samuel, a film producer, recently spoke out about the alarming rate of mortality among actors in the industry.
In an interview with ‘The Sun’, Samuel expressed her concern over the recent string of deaths and called for a systemic change in the industry’s treatment of its talent. She emphasized the importance of creating a professional environment that prioritizes the health and well-being of actors.
Samuel proposed initiatives such as health seminars to promote self-care among actors during their prime. She highlighted the detrimental effects of neglecting personal health, noting that many in the industry are depleting their savings on health issues that result from long-term neglect.
The Nollywood community has been devastated by the loss of esteemed figures like Mr. Ibu and Junior Pope, as well as emerging talents in 2024. The industry has witnessed the untimely deaths of actors due to severe health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
Notable actors like Olofa Ina, Ethel Ekpe, Sisi Quadri, Amaechi Muonagor, and Aderounmu Adeju are among those who have passed away this year. The industry is mourning the loss of these talented individuals and grappling with the need to address the health and well-being of its actors.
