Nollywood actress Bolaji Ogunmola has opened up about how her complexion and body shape influenced the roles she received at the beginning of her acting career. She stated that certain individuals in the industry attempted to confine her to specific character types because she is dark-skinned and curvy.
Struggles with Typecasting
During an interview with social media personality and content creator Joseph Onaolapo, widely known as Jay On-Air, which gained traction on Sunday, the actress disclosed that she was frequently considered for 'side chick' roles. 'It was almost like they wanted to put me in a box. I am dark-skinned. There was a time when light-skinned people were reigning, and they told me I was very curvy and tried to limit me to side chick roles,' she said.
Challenging Journey in Nollywood
The actress, who once participated in the Next Movie Star reality show but did not make it to the final house, described her journey in Nollywood as challenging. 'My journey has been crazy, but I have just kept at it,' she remarked.
Business Mindset and Advice
Ogunmola also discussed her early decision to venture into business, expressing her aversion to conventional office jobs. 'I just wanted my life to have meaning at that time. I am not somebody who likes to sit at home; I wanted to do something. I never wanted to do 9–5. It is not just me. Shoutout to people who do it, I applaud you. But for me, I am business-savvy like that,' she added.
She advised entertainers to plan beyond popularity, as fame can be fleeting. 'Life is in phases. You are popular today, you may not be tomorrow. What are you doing to put food on the table? You should be investing, positioning yourself from now. I have always been that kind of person, so I always have something else I am doing,' she said.
Lessons for Young Creatives
The actress urged young creatives to learn through service before seeking leadership roles. 'Before you lead, serve. A lot of the things I learnt were from other producers. Biodun Stephen was my first teacher when it comes to movie production. Every time I am on set, I am watching her,' she noted.
Career Background
Bolaji Ogunmola began her professional acting career in 2013, shortly after her participation in the 'Next Movie Star' reality television show. Prior to that, she refined her skills through church dramas and studies at the Royal Arts Academy in Surulere, Lagos. Her professional on-screen debut was in the comedy film Okon Goes to School.
