My films always minister to my audience –Etinosa Idemudia, Nollywood actress

Talented Nollywood screen diva and social media influencer, Etinosa Idemudia, is one filmmaker whose acting prowess and doggedness have brought her this far in the industry. The Delta State-born actress is a graduate of Computer Engineering from the Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, who in 2016 ventured into acting full time shortly after obtaining a Diploma in Performing Arts from the popular Royal Arts Academy.

In this interview, she speaks on her plans, career and how rewarding the industry is, among other related issues.

What can fans expect from you as the year continues to unfold?

Well, there are so many plans for the year. I want to make more TV films. I have seen that focusing more on my YouTube channel, ETINOSA TV, is such an easy and rewarding way to connect with my global audience. Most importantly, I will be releasing a movie on my YouTube Channel which tells a part of my life story – I sought a child for seven years before God answered me. The movie titled,” When Tables Turn” is dedicated to women seeking the fruit of the womb. 

In my channel, you will see a lot of well-designed movies that you and your family can relate to and cause a positive change. Movies with deep moral lessons. 

How have you been able to combine computer engineering and acting? 

I have tilted more to procurement engineering than computer engineering. I can multitask because as an actor I am in control of my schedule. So, I map out days when I am required as an engineer, when I am required as an actor and of course when I am required as a mother and managing each profession nicely, taking life one step at a time and mastering time management. 

What has been your experience in the industry over the years?

Film for me is a gospel path, in terms of producing, directing and acting. Whichever hat I wear, I do so as a minister. My films always minister to my audience. I believe this is my calling. There must be a meaningful message in my films otherwise you can never see me there. It has been a great journey of lessons and satisfaction doing what I love so much, constantly working on myself and giving my best in every case. 

You produced Dear Sister. Was your debut and what was the experience like? ⁠

Before Dear Sister was produced for the cinema, my debut was «The Washerman” which was a box office hit as of 2018. I first premiered Dear Sister in London in 2022 and the feedback from viewers was so rewarding. It›s so beautiful to create something and have the audience for whom it was created truly appreciate it. Premiering in Nigeria was amazing. My works speak for themselves.

 What I am happy the most about my films is that they always speak to my audience. Always relatable. 

Your role in Blood of Enogie also made you stand out. Share with us your experience playing Akugbe?

Playing a bitter soul and a witch for three months of my life was no easy feat. Queen Akugbe was vindictive, possessive, scheming and everything evil you can think of. At first, when I read the script I laughed and said “What?!!! Who is going to play this?” Because in real life I’m a very sweet and playful person which made the role very challenging. But the strength of every actor in becoming a character begins in the mind. I had to switch off every distraction, and every doubt and completely immerse myself into the character. No surprise therefore that the character became the talk of the nation and even in the United Kingdom, where the show also aired. I could say the same about Idozuwa, wher I played the role of a male king. I was seven months pregnant with all my hormones raging and still perfectly acted as a man. Viewers who saw that movie said they only knew it was me when I took my mask off. I must also give kudos to the director of Blood of Enogie, Charles Uwagbai. He is an actor›s director and also instrumental in bringing out my inner witch (laughs). 

How rewarding has the industry been for you?

I now own landed properties, cars and healthy investments courtesy of the industry but that›s not the biggest reward. I can say the biggest reward the industry gave me is the Etinosa Community, my fans who truly love and consume all my content are the real gift God gave me and I don›t take their love or trust in my brand for granted. This is why I take my time, select my projects wisely to give them the best. 

What advice do you have for younger people trying to break even in the industry?

The media is a strong tool of communication and we must use it wisely. Also, never get tired of promoting yourself, keep being visible and be prepared for greatness until greatness finds you. You have it in you. You can do it and you will succeed.