Popular Nollywood actress, Bolaji Ogunmola, has revealed how movie producers allegedly tried to stereotype her into “side chick” roles because of her dark skin and curvy figure during the early stages of her acting career.
Speaking in an interview with content creator Jay On-Air, the actress said she faced pressure from industry players who believed only light-skinned actresses could land leading roles at the time.
“It was almost like they wanted to put me in a box. I am dark-skinned. There was a time when light-skinned people were reigning, and they told me I was very curvy and tried to limit me to ‘side chick’ roles,” she said.
Ogunmola described her journey in Nollywood as “crazy,” noting that persistence and consistency helped her overcome the stereotypes placed on her.
The actress also praised filmmaker Biodun Stephen for playing a major role in shaping her career, describing her as her “first teacher” in movie production.
According to her, “Before you lead, serve. A lot of the things I learnt were from other producers. Every time I am on set, I am watching her.”
Beyond acting, Ogunmola said she ventured into business early because she never saw herself working a regular 9-to-5 job.
“I will not do 9–5, it’s not just me. Shoutout to people who do it, but for me, I am business-savvy like that,” she added.
She further advised creatives to invest wisely and prepare for life beyond fame, stressing that popularity in the entertainment industry is temporary.
