Nollywood English Movie Industry Was Strictly ‘Sex For Role’ – Regina Chukwu

Nollywood Yoruba actress Regina Chukwu has claimed that the English-language movie industry was dominated by “sex for role,” which influenced her decision to remain in the Yoruba film industry.

Speaking during an interview on Oyinmomo TV, Regina shared her experiences while trying to build a career in the English-speaking section of Nollywood. According to her, she attended several auditions but found the industry less welcoming than the Yoruba movie sector.

She said the Yoruba film industry was more accommodating and gave her a better opportunity to grow as an actress.

Recalling her audition experiences, Regina said many actors usually gathered at Winnings Hotel in Surulere, where auditions were held.

“There’s a place we normally go for auditions at Surulere, Winnings Hotel. That was where those actors used to be, including Genevieve and co. We were all sitting at Winnings Hotel and I tried auditioning several times but they are not as accommodating as Yorubas,” she said.

The actress further alleged that aspiring actresses were often pressured into sexual relationships before being offered movie roles.

“Despite the fact that I’m Igbo by tribe. You will have to start sleeping with them before getting to the top, starting from their generator guys. Lots of fake scripts to lure you into sexual intimacy. They are not accommodating. It is easier for me to relate with the Yorubas, maybe it’s because I was born and grew among the Yorubas all my life. For the English industry, it was strictly sex for role. They won’t hide it from you,” she said.

Regina also explained that focusing on the Yoruba movie industry has limited her popularity in some parts of Nigeria.

“I’m well known in Lagos and other South West States, but they don’t know me in my state as an actor. Enugu is a place that if I enter today, nobody will say, ‘Hi, I know you,’” she added.