“We’re Actors, Not Influencers”: Jemima Osunde Speaks on Social Media Pressure in Nollywood Casting
Popular Nollywood actress Jemima Osunde has sparked a much-needed conversation about the evolving—and some say troubling—criteria for casting actors in today’s Nigerian film industry.
In a candid discussion with fellow actor Jammal Ibrahim, Osunde expressed frustration over the growing demand for actors to become social media influencers or content creators before they’re even considered for roles.
“It’s as though they’re forcing every actor to be a social media content creator before casting them,” she said. “It’s like if you’re not dancing or trending on the internet, you’re not getting cast. Why? That shouldn’t be the actor’s job.”
Osunde’s words strike a deep chord, especially in an era where talent is increasingly being measured by algorithms instead of actual acting chops. The conversation also touched on the loss of authenticity, as performers feel pressured to conform to online trends just to stay relevant or land gigs.
Ibrahim chimed in with a thoughtful perspective on management and individuality, emphasizing the importance of building a brand around one's true personality rather than bending to social media expectations.
🎬 OPINION: Are We Losing the Craft in Pursuit of Clout?
What Osunde and Ibrahim are pointing out isn’t just a personal concern—it’s a symptom of a broader shift in Nollywood and global entertainment. Acting is a craft. A discipline. A talent that takes years to hone. And yet, we're seeing a steady rise in prioritizing “virality” over versatility, and “followers” over formal training.
While it’s understandable that producers want to boost a film’s visibility, is it fair—or even wise—to turn actors into unpaid PR machines?
By demanding that actors double as influencers, we blur the lines between art and advertisement, between character and clout. And the industry runs the risk of alienating some of its most authentic, grounded talents—those who may be camera-shy off-screen but magnetic on-screen.
💡 Finding Balance: Visibility vs. Authenticity
Let’s be real—social media can be a great tool for visibility. But it shouldn’t be a prerequisite for participation. There has to be room for actors who want to focus on the work itself—on character development, emotional depth, and storytelling—without having to do TikTok dances or post skits just to prove their relevance.
Filmmakers should focus on casting talent that serves the story, not just the timeline. Let’s remember what makes Nollywood magical—raw talent, compelling narratives, and relatable emotion—not trend-chasing.
🎭 Final Word
Jemima Osunde isn’t just venting—she’s advocating for the soul of Nollywood. As the industry continues to grow globally, it must ensure that the foundation it’s built on—real, powerful storytelling—doesn’t get lost in the scroll.
Do you think social media should be part of the casting criteria? Or should actors be allowed to let their performances, not their platforms, do the talking?
