Get to know the top 7 Nollywood actors of all time who have shaped Nigerian cinema with their unforgettable performances and lasting contributions to the industry.
Nigeria’s film industry, Nollywood, is the second largest in the world, producing thousands of films each year and captivating audiences across Africa and beyond. Over the years, a number of extraordinary actors have risen to stardom, becoming household names and ambassadors of African storytelling. These actors have brought life to diverse characters and storylines, showing immense talent, versatility and dedication to their craft. Here, we celebrate the top 7 Nollywood actors of all time, whose careers have not only defined the industry but also influenced generations of actors and filmmakers.
Top 7 Nollywood Actors of All Time
Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD)
When discussing the giants of Nollywood, Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, is always at the forefront. With over three decades in the entertainment industry, RMD is an accomplished actor and one of Nollywood’s most revered figures. He is known for his thralling performances in films like Out of Bounds, Diamond Ring, and The Wedding Party. His charm, charisma and ability to portray complex characters have earned him many awards, including an African Movie Academy Award(AMAA) for Best Actor. Beyond acting, RMD is a lawyer and former Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Delta State, Nigeria.
Ramsey Nouah
Ramsey Nouah is a Nollywood hearthrob known for his versatility and ability to handle a wide range of roles, from romantic leads to intense dramatic characters. He gained widespread fame in the early 2000s with films like Silent Night, Dangerous Twins, and The Figurine. Nouah’s natural acting style and ability to fully immerse himself in any role have earned him several accolades, including an AMAA for Best Actor. His longevity in the industry and continued relevance make him one of Nollywood’s most respected actors.
Pete Edochie
Pete Edochie is one of Nollywood’s most legendary figures, known for his commanding screen presence and deep voice. He rose to prominence in the 1980s with his unforgettable portrayal of Okonkwo in the Nigerian Television Authority’s adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart. Since then, Edochie has become synonymous with wisdom, playing the role of a patriarch or elder statesman in countless films. His influence on Nollywood and African cinema is immense and he is considered a father figure to many in the industry.
Nkem Owoh
Nkem Owoh, also known as Osuofia, is one of Hollywood’s most loved actors, especially when it comes to comedy. He is best known for his role in the hit movie Osuofia in London, where his comedic timing and ability to portray hilarious yet relatable characters endeared him to audiences across Africa. Owoh’s talent lies in his ability to blend humour with serious undertones, making his films enjoyable while also thought-provoking. His unique acting style has made him an exceptional figure in Nollywood, earning him several awards throughout his career.
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Desmond Elliot
Desmond Elliot is a seasoned actor, director and politician, whose contributions to Nollywood have been huge. He made his acting debut in the late 1990s and has since appeared in over 200 films, including Reloaded, Men Who Cheat, and The Perfect Church. Elliot’s natural talent and versatility have made him a sought-after actor, and he later transitioned to directing. Aside from his entertainment career, Elliot is a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, which proves his commitment to serving both the industry and his community.
Chiwetel Ejiofor
Though Chiwetel Ejiofor is more widely known for his Hollywood career, his Nigerian roots and contributions to African cinema cannot be overlooked. Born to Nigerian parents, Ejiofor has always celebrated his heritage, starring in films that reflect African stories, such as Half of a Yellow Sun and The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind. He is best known for his Oscar-nominated role in 12 Years a Slave, but his versatility as an actor allows him to seamlessly move between Hollywood and African cinema. Ejiofor continues to be a source of pride for Nigeria and an ambassador for African talent on the global stage.
Kanayo O. Kanayo
Kanayo O. Kanayo is known for his roles in Nollywood thrillers, often playing the character of a powerful man involved in the dark underbelly of society. With his stern expressions and intense acting, Kanayo has built a career playing complex characters in films like Living in Bondage(1992), which is credited as one of the first major Nollywood films. Over the years, he has proven his acting versatility by starring in different genres, and his contribution to the industry have earned him respect as one of Nollywood’s finest actors.
Conclusion
Nollywood has produced some of the finest acting talents in Africa, and the 7 actors highlighted here have not only shaped the industry but also gained international recognition. Their remarkable performances, dedication to their craft, and contribution to the development of African cinema have made them icons in their own right. As Nollywood continues to grow, these actors will remain symbols of excellence, inspiring the next generation of actors and filmmakers to push the boundaries of storytelling.
