The Nigerian film industry, commonly known as Nollywood, has a rich history due to the remarkable work of its veteran actresses. These women have not only paved the way for the new generation of actressrs, but also continue to inspire with their enduring talent, versatility, and dedication to their craft.
As the backbone of Nollywood, their legacies are built on years of memorable performances and skills. Below is a list of some veterans who have proven their tenacity, passion and who remain active and relevant in the entertainment industry:
1. Sola Sobowale born on December 26, 1965. She is an iconic actress famous for her powerful roles in films such as King of Boys. Her career had a breakthrough with the TV series Super Story: Oh Father, Oh Daughter in 2001, and she continues to be a dominant force in the industry.
2. Fausat Balogun (Madam Saje): Born February 13, 1959, Fausat Balogun is a veteran Yoruba actress and movie producer, known for her motherly roles. She began her career in the mid-1970s and gained widespread recognition for her role in the TV series Erin Kee Kee in 1990, and still appearing on our screens.
3. Shaffy Bello: A versatile actress and singer born in October 1970, Shaffy Bello gained popularity with her role in the 1997 hit song Love Me Jeje. She has since starred in numerous films and TV series, maintaining her relevance in Nollywood.
4. Kate Henshaw: Born July 9, 1971, Kate Henshaw is a celebrated actress who won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role in 2008 for her role in Stronger than Pain. She remains a prominent figure in Nollywood.
5. Peju Ogunmola: A veteran Yoruba actress, Peju Ogunmola has made a name for herself with her comedic performances and roles in Yoruba films. She comes from a family of actors and continues to contribute to the industry.
6. Bimbo Oshin: Born July 24, 1971, Bimbo Oshin is a Yoruba actress who gained recognition with her role in Omo Elemosho. She continues to act and has been active in the industry since the mid-1990s.
7. Joke Silva: Born in September 1961, Joke Silva is a highly respected actress and director, married to veteran actor Olu Jacobs. She has had a long and successful career, starting in the early 1990s, and remains an influential figure in Nollywood.
8. Lanre Hassan (Iyabo Oko): Born November 15, 1960, Lanre Hassan, also known as Iyabo Oko, is a veteran Yoruba actress who gained fame with her role in the film Oko. She continues to act in Yoruba films.
9. Gloria Young: Born February 4, 1967, Gloria Young is a veteran actress who transitioned from journalism to acting. She became widely known for her role in Glamour Girls and continues to act in various productions.
10. Eucharia Anunobi: Born May 27, 1965, Eucharia Anunobi is a veteran actress, producer, and pastor. She gained fame with her role in Glamour Girls II in 1996 and has since featured in over 90 movies. She continues to act while also serving as an evangelist.
11. Fathia Balogun: Born February 5, 1969, Fathia Balogun is a respected actress and filmmaker known for her work in Yoruba cinema. She has won multiple awards and remains an influential figure in the industry.
12. Bukky Wright: Born March 31, 1967, Bukky Wright is a veteran actress, businesswoman, and politician who has appeared in numerous Yoruba and English-language films. She has graced numerous Nollywood movies in both Yoruba and English languages, including the popular television series “Super Story” by Wale Adenuga. She continues to contribute to Nollywood while pursuing other interests.
13. Ngozi Nwosu: Born August 1, 1963, Ngozi Nwosu is a veteran actress known for her roles in Yoruba and Igbo films. She has had a long and varied career, including her memorable role in Fuji House of Commotion.
14. Ayo Adesanya: Born August 11, 1969, Ayo Adesanya is a talented actress and producer who has appeared in both Yoruba and English-language films. She started her career in the early 1990s and remains active in the industry.
15. Liz Benson: A veteran actress, Liz Benson rose to fame with her role in Fortunes in 1993 and Glamour Girls in 1994. Although she took a break from acting, she returned and continues to feature in films, now balancing her career with her role as a preacher.
16. Ireti Doyle: Born May 3, 1967, Ireti Doyle is an accomplished actress, producer, and writer with a degree in Theatre Arts and Mass Communication. Despite her busy family life, she continues to be active in Nollywood.
17. Toyin Afolayan (Lola Idije): Born September 1959, Toyin Afolayan, known as Lola Idije, is a veteran actress known for her role in Deadly Affair. She remains a beloved figure in Yoruba cinema.
18. Margaret Bandele Olayinka (Iya Gbonkan): Margaret Bandele Olayinka, known as Iya Gbonkan, was born on September 14, 1958. She is famous for her powerful and often scary screen presence. Iya Gbonkan became well-known in the early 1970s through TV series and movies like “Ifa Olokun,” “Olori Emere,” and “Koto Orun.”
19. Toyin Adegbola: Toyin Adegbola, widely known by her stage name Toyin Asewo to re Mecca, is a Nigerian film actress, producer, and director born on December 28, 1961. Toyin’s extensive work in Nollywood, particularly in Yoruba films, has earned her a revered spot in the industry. Her versatility and talent continue to captivate audiences, ensuring her place as a staple in Nigerian cinema.
20. Binta Ayo Mogaji: Binta Ayo Mogaji is a veteran Nigerian actress whose extensive body of work spans over 800 films, television shows, and theatre productions. Born in 1964 in Agbo-Ile, Ibadan, Binta began her acting career with the Yoruba home video “Mojere.” She has received numerous accolades, including the “Best Actress” award. Known for her strong stance on professionalism.
Promise Babatunde
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