Funke Akindele Opens Up About Facing Rejections in Film Industry Due to Appearance
Popular Nollywood actress and filmmaker, Funke Akindele, recently shared her remarkable journey as a struggling actress during the early stages of her career. Speaking on the TokeMoments podcast hosted by Toke Makinwa, she opened up about the challenges she faced, including rejections based on her physical appearance.
Akindele candidly revealed that she encountered hurdles because some people believed she wasn’t “attractive enough” for leading roles. Even in Yoruba indigenous movies, she found it difficult to secure substantial roles due to her physique.
Reflecting on those trying times, known for her role as ‘Jenifa’ in the hit series ‘Jenifa’s Diary,’ she mentioned that she often found herself relegated to minor roles, which left her disheartened.
Producers, according to Akindele, would bluntly tell her that she lacked certain physical attributes, such as a curvaceous figure, which they considered necessary for specific roles. These comments took a toll on her, and she admitted to breaking down in tears, often seeking solace in the bathroom.
“I remember people telling me, ‘You are not fine. You don’t have ass. You don’t have boobs. You will not be in this film,’ and I remember crying. A lot of times I would cry, break down, get into the bathroom, and cry,” Akindele shared.
Despite these challenging moments, Funke Akindele expressed her deep gratitude for the support she received from fellow actress Iyabo Ojo during those tough times. Ojo’s encouragement and assistance were instrumental in helping her navigate the difficulties of the industry.
Akindele’s story is a testament to her unwavering determination and talent. Despite early setbacks, she persevered and went on to achieve great success in the Nollywood industry. Today, she stands as a prominent figure and serves as an inspiring role model for aspiring actors and filmmakers, proving that resilience and dedication can lead to remarkable accomplishments in the world of entertainment.
