By Rita Okoye
Nollywood actress, Mojisola Adebanjo has expressed concerns about beauty standards in the Nigerian film industry, claiming that actresses with Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedures and curvier figures are increasingly favoured for film roles.
According to Adebanjo, while she has no objection to cosmetic enhancements, she believes the rising preference for curvier actresses has created an uneven playing field in Nollywood.
She expressed this on the Conversations With Kenni podcast, saying, “Men of these days are naturally drawn to women with hourglass figures. I don’t think it’s a bad thing, but when the BBL is excessive, then I have an issue with it. Technically, most producers now favour curvy and BBL actresses over the rest of us. I have been a victim, and that experience left me in pain.”
The actress also stated that she would never compromise her principles for fame, revealing she once rejected a role because it required her to play a witch. She added she would also turn down any role that portrays her as a stripper.
“I’ve turned down the offer to play a witch before. Kudos to my colleagues who play that role perfectly; it’s not just something I think I want to explore. I also don’t think I can play a stripper. Those are not the kinds of characters I want to portray,” she explained.
The Haunted movie star actress also dismissed the longstanding idea that actresses must exchange sexual favours for opportunities in the industry, emphasising that she has earned every role based on merit since joining Nollywood in 2019.
“I can beat my chest and say I have never slept with anyone for a movie role, and I never will. I’ve also never dated anyone in the industry. Many people assume actresses have men flocking around them, but that’s far from the truth. Acting cost me a serious relationship because of the nature of the job. Anyone who wants to be with me must understand that I won’t quit acting for a relationship. Acting is my career.”
On her ideal partner, the actress said she desires a hardworking, handsome, and financially stable man, adding that she would not marry someone who earns less than she does.
Beyond acting, Adebanjo is also making strides as a filmmaker. She spoke about her latest production, Ojo Coward, a relationship drama that examines domestic violence, emotional abuse and the challenges many women face in marriage.
“The story teaches men how to treat their partners better. Many Nigerian men put themselves first in marriage without considering their wives’ convenience. I believe that mindset needs to change,” she said.
(The Sun)