Showbiz
Seven Nollywood Talents Who Rose to Stardom on Africa Magic
Nollywood has numerous actors and actresses who wear different characters to entertain us in movies. The steady rise of Nollywood talents in recent years is remarkable, and this is down to the investment of platforms like Africa Magic in talent discovery and commissioning/licensing of movies and series that cast budding talents. In celebration of Africa Magic at 20, here is a list of renowned Nollywood telnets who rose to stardom on the Africa Magic platform:
Tobi Bakre: He’s no doubt one of the hottest talents around at the moment. Tobi rose to stardom on one of Africa Magic’s reality TV shows, Big Brother Nigeria. He won the AMVCA’s Best Actor in 2023 for his role in the blockbuster movie, Brotherhood. His first-ever movie role was in the Africa Magic original drama, Hustle. Tobi is also the lead character in the ongoing Africa Magic series, Slum King.
Tope Olowoniyan: She’s an actress with a fast-rising stock in the movie industry since she made her acting debut in 2015. Africa Magic audiences will remember Olowoniyan’s role in popular series such as Hush, Battleground, Tinsel, Riona, and Enakhe. These roles have earned her scripts on other projects in Nollywood. “My growth in Nollywood fundamentally was because of Africa Magic. I cannot talk about my career without mentioning Africa Magic,” she said while speaking about her acting career.
Femi Odugbemi: This popular producer is a perfect example of how Africa Magic elevated the art of indigenous storytelling in Africa. Odugbemi’s career success is hugely down to his works with Africa Magic which has seen him produce series such as Battleground and Tinsel. As a rookie producer in 2004, Odugbemi pitched his project, ‘Mama Put’ to Africa Magic, and secured $100,000 investment. That, according to him, was the turning point in his career. He then pitched Tinsel with co-producers, and the result is what we see today. Tinsel is currently the longest-running series on Africa Magic, with over 3000 episodes.
Gideon Okeke: He is one of the first beneficiaries of the Africa Magic investment in movie production and talent development. The actor got his first acting role in Tinsel, in 2007. His Tinsel performances earned him a nomination by Africa Magic for a role in the popular South Africa series, Jacob’s Cross. “Tinsel was the first film school I attended. My work on Tinsel inspired me to become the artist I am today,” Okeke said about his acting career.
Ireti Doyle: This movie star also owes her popularity to the Africa Magic platform. In a recent interview, the actress narrated how she almost didn’t go for the Tinsel audition, the show that shot her to stardom. Ireti Doyle is one of the longest-running cast members on the series with her lead role as ‘Shella’.
Nomzo Bassey: Battleground remains one of the most popular Africa Magic series of the last 20 years. One of the stars who hugged the limelight from the series is Nomzo. His role as Doctor Emeka earned him popularity. According to him, he became a popular face in markets and malls across the country. “Africa Magic made me a star,” Bassey said.
Chisom Agoawuike: This fashion model and ex-beauty queen rose to prominence for her role as ‘Halita’ in the widely followed Africa Magic series, The Rishantes. Chisom landed the role after an audition in Abuja, and the rest, as they say, is history.
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Multiple award-winning UK-based Nigerian filmmaker, Mr Obi Emelonye, has highlighted the importance of film festivals to move producers.
In a chat with CNN, the filmmaker said film festivals are “hugely important” because they play a significant role in the career of filmmakers.
“I think one other thing that film festivals, just like awards ceremonies, have done is to elevate filmmaking to just rise above commercialism,” Mr Emelonye.
The producer of Last Flight to Abuja, which featured Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, spoke highly of how one of his new flicks, Out of Breath, was the closing film for the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) in Lagos.
“It’s a huge profile that can be stepped upon for greater things for the film,” the former professional footballer and lawyer-turned filmmaker said on CNN’s Africa Avant Garde.
He welcomed the new interest in critical acclaim, noting that filmmakers are aspiring not just to make money but to have those accolades as part of their growth to get to bigger things.
The founder of AFRIFF, Ms Chioma Ude, explained how her film festival benefits stakeholders in the movie industry in Africa.
“To just film lovers, it’s a place where they go in and watch films; to young people who want to be associated with stars, it’s a place where they can actually go see them; and for filmmakers that need to partner, to learn, it’s a great place for learning.”
She noted that the most important aspect of the week-long event, which screened 150 films, was “having the filmmakers show their films to the rest of the world, the people that are there, and showing the film, taking the bow at the end, and talking about your experience.”
June is here, and that means two things: the rains are back, and so is the perfect excuse to get cozy indoors with premium screen time. Whether you’re a drama lover, a reality TV regular, or still recovering from football season, GOtv has your entertainment sorted.
From midweek international clashes to royal drama in Zulu land, from the return of Big Brother Naija stars stirring things up at the reunion to powerhouse vocals on Nigerian Idol, this month’s lineup isn’t just good; it’s unmissable. So whatever your screen-time vibe, here’s what GOtv has to offer:
BBNaija ‘No Loose Guard’ Reunion
The cameras are back, and so is the drama. This June, the housemates from BBNaija’s unforgettable ‘No Loose Guard’ season reunite for the ultimate spill session. Friendships will be tested, secrets will surface, and the tea? Piping hot.
With the spotlight back on, fans can expect fireworks, shade, and maybe a few heartfelt reconciliations, all served late-night, Monday to Friday. This is the kind of reality TV that defines prime time. Catch the drama through the week from 23 June at 11:00 PM on Africa Magic Showcase.
Shaka iLembe Season 2: The King Returns
The epic Zulu saga is back and bigger than ever! Shaka iLembe, one of Africa’s most-watched drama series, returns for Season 2 on June 15. The new season follows Shaka and his mother, Nandi, as they arrive at KwaNobamba, where Shaka begins his reign as king of the Zulu nation.
With its stunning visuals, gripping storytelling, and a powerhouse cast led by Nomzamo Mbatha and Senzo Radebe, Shaka iLembe is a must-watch. After bagging 12 SAFTA awards and over 3.6 million viewers in its first week alone last season, Season 2 is set to raise the bar. Tune in at 7:00 PM on Africa Magic Epic.
FIFA Club World Cup: A New Format, Bigger Stakes
For the first time ever, the FIFA Club World Cup will feature 32 teams in a format that mirrors the men’s World Cup. That means group stages, knockouts, and weeks of elite club football from every corner of the world.
Starting June 15 and running through to July 13, this tournament promises serious action as global giants battle for the title of the best club on Earth. Whether you’re rooting for Europe’s powerhouses, South America’s finest, or underdog surprises, this is football like you’ve never seen before. Watch all the action on SuperSport Football Plus.
Nigerian Idol Season 10: Voices That Captivate
From iconic performances to live eliminations serving up surprises and emotional moments, this year’s Nigerian Idol has been nothing short of electrifying. With just seven contestants left battling for the crown, anticipation is at an all-time high.
If you haven’t been watching yet, now’s the perfect time to catch up and get acquainted with the incredible talent remaining in the competition. With powerhouse performances and a panel featuring Ric Hassani, Iyanya, and Omawumi — plus surprise guest judges like DJ Sose, Waje, D’banj, and many more — the stage is set for an unforgettable finale.
Catch the show every Sunday at 7:00 PM on Africa Magic Family (GOtv Ch. 2) and Africa Magic Showcase (Ch. 12). Also available to stream on Showmax and the GOtv app.
What Will People Say? Season 1
Love, laughter, and plenty of unfiltered opinions.
Each week, a single “seeker” dives into the dating pool, with help (or interference) from a live studio audience. Guided by witty host Sika Osei, the seeker undergoes compatibility challenges, tackles emotionally charged conversations, and navigates unexpected twists on their quest for love.
Romantic, revealing, and always entertaining, this is reality TV with a fresh twist, and viewers get a front-row seat to every wild turn. Catch it every Friday at 11:00 PM on Africa Magic Showcase.
Tinsel Season 18
The drama doesn’t take a day off.
In Tinsel’s latest chapter, Freddy decides to propose to Lantana to prove he’s grown, but Sheila’s discovery of a dark secret threatens it all. On the big day, a tragic accident leaves Freddy in a coma, setting the stage for emotional fallout, shocking choices, and tangled loyalties.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new viewer, there’s no better time to get caught up in one of Nigeria’s most iconic soap operas. Watch every weekday at 8:00 PM on Africa Magic Family.
A Day with Samuel L. Jackson (Movie Marathon)
He’s loud, legendary, and taking over your Sunday.
TNT is serving a full day of Samuel L. Jackson’s most iconic roles, from shark-infested chaos in Deep Blue Sea, to airborne panic in Snakes on a Plane, to explosive intensity in Die Hard with a Vengeance.
If you love action, attitude, and a little cinematic mayhem, this is your ultimate movie marathon. Tune in on Sunday, 22 June, from 3:50 PM on TNT Africa.
June Just Got Sorted
If you’re bored this June, you’re not watching GOtv. From international football battles to Zulu royalty, reality show fireworks, and musical journeys, the lineup has something for everyone. The rains may be heavy, but so is the entertainment.
So, stay in, stay dry, and stay entertained because on GOtv, this is where the action lives. To enjoy all this entertainment and more, stay active on GOtv by using *288# for quick renewals, or through the MyGOtv app, and watch all your premium content on the GOtv Stream app.
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The African film industry has remained untapped because of low investment but this is gradually changing due to the significant interest from MultiChoice, which is engaging local filmmakers like Mr James Omokwe to tell authentic African stories.
In this interview, Mr Omokwe delved into the impact of MultiChoice on African filmmaking as well as how the company empowered him to succeed in the sector, which is projected to be the next crude oil.
You’ve been in the industry for over a decade now. What moment would you say marked the true turning point in your career as a filmmaker?
Absolutely. The biggest turning point for me was in 2014. I had started working in the industry around 2011, and my first film came out in 2013 as a director. But things weren’t quite working out the way I hoped. Like many filmmakers, especially in Nigeria, I was struggling. I remember watching one of my films on an iPad, just reminiscing, and honestly, I was on the verge of giving up and returning to a more “stable” job.
Then sometime around October or November 2014, a friend who was starting a TV show asked if I’d be open to coming on as a consulting producer. That was my first real producing gig, and even though I had some experience before, this was different. That experience opened the door to television for me. From there, I started executive producing other shows and that opportunity completely changed my career. It was a massive turning point.
You’re known for crafting stories that feel deeply local but widely relatable. What draws you to the kinds of stories you choose to tell?
From the start, our company had one key mission — to tell authentically African stories. That’s always been our driving force. When you come into an industry dominated by certain genres like romance or comedy, you want to stand out. I’ve always had a deep connection to our history, culture, and oral traditions. I feel like storytelling is in our DNA as Africans.
We’re not just making films for entertainment; we’re trying to preserve something. To pass on knowledge, memory, and identity. Every project I’ve worked on carries some form of cultural nuance that reflects where we come from. It’s always intentional.
One of your major early projects, ‘Ajoche’, sparked a big reaction for its bold narrative and authentic tone. What did that project mean to you, and how did it shift how you were seen in the industry?
Ajoche was a real blessing. It was the first major project we did that felt deeply authentic. It wasn’t just epic in scope, but in how true it was to our culture. I honestly didn’t expect people to embrace it the way they did. At one point, I heard it did really good numbers. I’m not sure how accurate, but the feedback was incredible.
Even now, people still talk about it online. I saw someone mention it on Twitter just yesterday and the show aired in 2018! It really cemented my place as someone committed to telling authentically African stories. To this day, it’s still one of the projects I’m most proud of.
What role would you say MultiChoice and Africa Magic played in helping you take on projects like that, from production to distribution and beyond?
Africa Magic gave me an environment to create and that’s huge. They gave me my first real opportunity and the creative freedom to bring my vision to life. That doesn’t just mean writing the story, but visualising it, building the world with my team, and really owning the work. They didn’t just fund it, they empowered us.
Without their support, I don’t think Ajoche, Riona or other shows would have happened the way they did. They gave us room to grow and prove ourselves, and I’m truly grateful for that.
Would you say that working with Africa Magic opened up new creative or commercial opportunities for you?
Absolutely. Working with MultiChoice helped me build a structure that I now apply to every project. It gave me an edge in how I produce, how I manage teams, and how I build shows from scratch. That expertise has been invaluable.
Even now, the film we’re currently working on, ‘The Yard’, is being praised for its technical quality and storytelling. We’re in talks for international distribution. And all of that comes from the experience and growth I’ve had producing for Africa Magic over the past eight years. That experience can’t be bought. It shaped me, and I carry it into everything I do.
Beyond your own success, how have your projects contributed to job creation or the growth of the local production economy?
I wish I had the data in front of me but I can say confidently that over the past eight years, our projects have probably employed more than 5,000 people. ‘Ajoche’ alone had 700 people. “The Yard,” currently has a crew strength of about 90 people, working for several months straight.
These are jobs for actors, crew, stylists, set designers — across the board. We’re now working on our seventh or eighth show. These productions feed into the local economy, they keep people employed, and they build careers. The impact is real.
There’s often talk about preserving cultural integrity. Has MultiChoice given you the space to create without compromising cultural nuance?
Definitely. From the beginning, Africa Magic has been intentional about projecting authentic African stories. I remember early meetings where they made it clear that our culture must shine through and they supported that.
They don’t force it, but the expectation is clear. And most producers understand the responsibility. We’re not just making content for entertainment, we’re showcasing who we are to the entire continent. So yes, they’ve allowed us to preserve our identity, and they’ve helped us do it in a way that’s powerful and widely seen.
Finally, based on your experience, what would you say to people who question whether MultiChoice is truly investing in the Nigerian creative economy?
I’d say that question is like asking if the sky is red. The answer is obvious. Since 2014, I’ve worked on numerous productions with MultiChoice, and I’ve seen the direct impact.
They’ve created real, long-term jobs. They’ve supported talent development. They’ve invested in stories that matter. The success I’ve had and that many others have had is tied to their commitment to this industry. You can’t fake that kind of impact. It’s clear, it’s measurable, and it’s ongoing.
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