by Nollywood actress Nkiru Sylvanus is a woman who made her mark in the entertainment industry after starring in a slew of hit movies including Egg of Life, A Cry for Help, and many more. After an impressive run as an actor, and becoming very popular for her crying to the point that her name has even become synonymous with tears in the acting profession, the star actress decided to switch gears over to politics and slightly eased away from acting as her main profession.
Now, Nkiru Sylvanus is ready for a comeback, and is speaking with The Punch about how she has grown over these years of absence.
Speaking about her acting career, how she got in, and how she plans to make a big return, Nkiru Sylvanus said:
NKIRU SYLVANUS: I developed an interest in acting back in secondary school after watching “Abuse”, a movie featuring Omotola. That inspired me to become an actress. Watching “Living in Bondage” from our neighbours’ windows also fueled my passion. I joined the Dramatic Society, and when I got admission to study in Enugu—the hub of Nollywood at the time—it was easy to find auditions. My first role was playing Ngozi Ezeonu’s daughter in a movie because they were looking for someone who resembled her, so I auditioned and was picked. After that role, I kept attending auditions until my big break came with “A Cry for Help.”
I’m still very much in love with entertainment and movies, though I don’t do movies regularly like I used to because I’m more selective with scripts. I focus on work that speak volumes rather than just being in front of people. Once I see a script that catches my interest, I’ll act. I’ve also produced a couple of movies and I plan to take on a BIG project shortly.
Speaking about her signature crying, and answering if she would still play the famous character of Ble Ble, the character that first made her popular for her crying, in the same way today, Nkiru Sylvanus responded saying:
NKIRU SYLVANUS: Well, I’m not easily prone to tears, but I would say I’m a very emotional person. I think the movie brought out that part of me, a different part of me that I never knew existed. And then I gave it my best. It lifted my career, and people still remember it to this day.
Yes, I would still reprise my role of Ble Ble if asked, but I would approach it differently. I am no longer that naive young girl who cries from one point to another without solutions. Now, I would take on the role of teaching perseverance and endurance through struggles and persecution to achieve success. My approach would be more empowering.
