Veteran Nollywood actress Bimbo Akintola has sparked conversations online after opening up about the current state of the Nigerian film industry. The celebrated actress, known for her decades of contribution to Nollywood, expressed disappointment that the industry is no longer fueled by the raw passion and dedication that once defined it.
During a recent candid interview with fellow actress Ayo Adesanya, Akintola spoke about the drastic shift in values within Nollywood. She criticised the increasing obsession with physical appearance, luxury lifestyles, makeup, and body enhancement surgeries, which she believes have now overshadowed true artistry and storytelling. According to her, many contemporary actors focus more on glamour and visibility rather than the craft itself.
She drew a sharp contrast between the past and present, reflecting on her early career days when she worked alongside legendary Nollywood figures like Sola Sobowale and Joke Silva. Akintola recounted how, back then, actors often worked tirelessly through long nights without proper food, comfort, or financial reward, yet were driven by a deep love for the art. She explained that their main motivation was the hunger to tell meaningful stories and connect with audiences, not the glitz or glamour attached to fame.
“Now, people are saying things like, ‘My makeup isn’t right for this scene,’ or, ‘I can’t wear this outfit.’ But is that what filmmaking is truly about? It’s heartbreaking because many are more focused on their looks and not on what they can deliver as actors. This is why, today, there is so much emphasis on BBL and outward beauty. Looks will fade no matter what you do, but your passion, talent, and craft are what should remain timeless,” she lamented.
The actress stressed that Nollywood was originally built on sacrifice, discipline, and realism, but is now shifting towards superficiality. She urged younger actors to focus less on vanity and more on building substance in their work, warning that beauty fades but art lasts forever.
Her remarks have since triggered mixed reactions among fans and Nollywood enthusiasts, with many agreeing with her sentiment while others argue that the evolution of the industry was inevitable due to global trends and audience demands.
Watch the full video of her statement below …
Nollywood is no longer passion-driven. It’s now about BBL & makeup – Bimbo Akintola
The actress says goals shifted from love for the craft to appearances.
She recalled working long nights without food alongside icons like Joke Silva & Sola Sobowale for pure passion.#BbnS10 pic.twitter.com/3cLIMxkFsB
— Celebritybox9ja (@celebritybox9ja) August 22, 2025