Nollywood star Jemima Osunde has stirred major online conversations after opening up about the growing pressure on actors to double as social media influencers—a trend she believes is hurting the essence of the craft.
Speaking on the Running Lines Podcast, the actress didn’t mince words as she shared her frustration:
“Now they’re forcing actors to be social media content creators. It’s now like, ‘You see that dance? You must dance on the internet.’ Why?”
She argued that casting directors are now prioritizing actors with strong online followings, with less focus on talent and more on engagement.
“If you’re not an actor with a social media presence, you’re not going to be cast because you need to sell the film. That shouldn’t be my job! Like, how many times do you see Keanu Reeves when he’s not on your screen as an actor?”
Online Reactions: A House Divided
Her bold take has split opinions across social media:
🔸 “They are forcing themselves. Nobody asked them. Even if people ask, they can say NO.”
🔸 “Why must I dance before I reach my target audience? Even business owners are going through the same thing.”
🔸 “That’s the demand of the world today. It’s about marketing. If you’re in a movie, it’s also your job to help sell it.”
🔸 “The algorithm favors those who push. If you want your movie to sell, you better promote it yourself.”
🔸 “Times have changed. You have to evolve or be left behind.”
The Bigger Question: Is This The New Norm?
Jemima’s frustration reflects a larger conversation not just in Nollywood, but globally. As the lines between art and influence blur, actors are now being measured by both their screen skills and their screen time on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
So, where do we draw the line between actor and influencer? Should actors have to “perform” off-screen just to stay relevant, or should their on-screen talent be enough?
What’s your take: Is this shift good for the industry—or are we losing the essence of true acting in the chase for clicks and content?
