In the vibrant landscape of Nigerian cinema, few stars shine as brightly as Sarian Martin, whose journey from secondary school productions to Nollywood acclaim demonstrates the power of passion and perseverance. The Bayelsa-born actress has carved an impressive path in the entertainment industry while simultaneously building a diverse business portfolio.
Early Beginnings and Educational Foundation
Sarian Martin Oruene, popularly known as Queen Sari, discovered her love for acting during her secondary school days. "I discovered my passion for acting in secondary school when I did my very first production, and since then, I knew that I was going to chase the career after school," the actress revealed in a recent interview.
Born on January 12, 1997, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Sarian comes from the Izon-speaking ethnic group in Nigeria's South-South region. Her parents, Mr and Mrs Martin Oruene, hail from Nembe and Ogbia in Bayelsa, where she spent her formative years in a Christian family environment with four siblings.
The actress built a strong educational foundation, completing her early education in Bayelsa before earning a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts from Niger Delta University on Wilberforce Island. This academic background would later prove invaluable in her film and media career.
Rise to Nollywood Prominence
Sarian Martin officially launched her acting career in 2019 after completing university, but her journey to public recognition began earlier through beauty pageants and modeling. She won Miss Niger Delta University in 2015, claimed the Miss Pentico Style title in 2017, and finished as first runner-up in the Face of University Nigeria pageant.
Her breakthrough role came in 2021 when she portrayed Amaka in the Africa Magic Original Series 'Freda'. This performance showcased her emotional range and established her as a fast-rising star in Nollywood. Since her debut, she has appeared in more than 50 productions, working alongside established actors like Jim Iyke, Frederick Leonard, Bimbo John, Maurice Sam, Daniel Etim Effiong, and Nadia Buari.
Some of her notable film appearances include Mad Neighbours (2023), Merry Men 3: Nemesis (2023), Mr Lecturer (2024), Colours of Love (2025), Expensive Househelps (2025), and Loving Samira (2025).
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Personal Life
Beyond her acting career, Sarian Martin has established herself as a successful multi-business entrepreneur. She runs ventures including a beauty salon, spa, and hotel business. Her entrepreneurial spirit extends to interior design, construction materials supply, humanitarian services, and event hosting.
In 2023, her business acumen earned her the Fame Icon Award for Entrepreneur of the Year, recognizing her achievements beyond the entertainment industry. She also produces her own films and manages a YouTube channel, Sarian Martin TV, where she shares movies and behind-the-scenes content with her growing fanbase.
As of 2025, the 28-year-old actress remains unmarried and has no children. She maintains privacy regarding her personal life, though rumors have occasionally linked her to Nollywood actor Maurice Sam due to their frequent collaborations. Both stars have denied any romantic involvement, clarifying that their relationship is strictly professional.
Speculation about possible cosmetic procedures has circulated online, with some observers comparing her older and recent photographs. However, Sarian Martin has never publicly addressed these claims, maintaining focus on her professional endeavors.
Through persistence and authenticity, Sarian Martin continues to build her reputation as one of Nollywood's most consistent emerging talents. Her dedication to acting, production, and business reflects a clear commitment to growth both within and beyond the film industry, serving as an inspiration to aspiring actors and entrepreneurs across Nigeria.
