Francis Odega Details Dollar Payment from Olamide for Iconic 'Gerara Here' Phrase
Nollywood veteran Francis Odega has opened up about the unexpected financial windfall and career boost he received from his viral catchphrase 'Gerara here'. In a recent interview on the Where Is The Lie podcast, Odega recounted how Nigerian rap superstar Olamide contacted him to use his voice and lines in a song by Lil Kesh, resulting in a payment made in US dollars.
The Viral Deal That Changed His Career
Odega explained that he was in South Africa when Olamide reached out with the request. 'Olamide called me and he paid me in dollar for him to use my voice and line 'Gerara here' and 'You don't know nothing' in Lil Kesh's song. I said YES,' the actor revealed. This transaction not only provided immediate financial gain but also catapulted Odega into the spotlight, with the phrase trending widely across social media and entertainment platforms.
International Recognition and Endorsement Opportunities
The popularity of 'Gerara here' brought Odega unprecedented attention, including reposts from international celebrities like Snoop Dogg and 50 Cent. He noted that the viral moment opened doors to numerous lucrative opportunities, including a three-year ambassadorship with Etisalat and features in DStv advertisements during his time in South Africa. Odega emphasized that this tagline remains one of the highlights of his career, effectively bridging Nollywood, music, and global recognition.
Odega's Reflections on Nollywood's Evolution
During the same podcast episode, Odega expressed concerns about the current state of Nollywood, comparing it unfavorably to the industry's earlier days. He stated that films from his era were more memorable and impactful, whereas today's productions often lack quality. 'Back then, one script would give us one unforgettable movie. But now, one script can give you seven bad movies, and that's not right. Nollywood back then is far better than the Nollywood of today,' he lamented.
Odega also highlighted his foundational role in Nollywood, noting that he was among the pioneers who helped establish the industry. He mentioned that the organization was initially called the Nigerian Actors Guild (NAG) before evolving into the Actors' Guild of Nigeria (AGN), and he has been active in the movie industry for three decades.
Broader Industry Context
This revelation comes amid other Nollywood news, such as Kunle Afolayan defending his film Anikulapo Series 2: The Ghoul Awakens against critics, emphasizing that his work targets viewers who appreciate deeper storytelling. Odega's story underscores the intersection of Nollywood and the music industry, showcasing how viral moments can lead to significant financial and professional rewards for actors.
