Kanayo criticises the YouTube Nollywood trend, saying, "It's about talent, not fine faces."
Making movies isn’t simply about having a pretty face; it’s all about being an excellent actor and performer. Hence, I have chosen to pursue this path regardless of looks. If you disapprove, that's a shame.
Nollywood star Kanayo O. Kanayo has expressed deep worries about the current state of the Nigerian film industry, particularly on YouTube. He believes that casting is now centered more on fame and appearance rather than genuine acting talent.
In a clip shared on his Instagram, the actor announced that he plans to alter his own strategy. "I have made the choice to take control of my future regarding my YouTube channel," Kanayo stated.
Making movies isn’t simply about having a pretty face; it’s all about being an excellent actor and performer. Hence, I have chosen to pursue this path regardless of looks. If you disapprove, that's a shame.
A long time ago, around 25 years back, when we were developing the Nollywood industry, some sponsors began labeling actors: "this one isn’t marketable, that one won’t bring in viewers." This ruined many careers, he noted.
The actor pointed out that producers on YouTube are repeating this issue by restricting roles to a limited group of performers.
“We're starting to see the same problem again. The well-known faces on YouTube are beginning to stifle talent in the industry,” he expressed with sadness.
He remarked that this "face monopoly" hinders creativity and makes it challenging to welcome new actors.
“Some of these people will tell you they’re unavailable from September 2025 to August 2026. How can we keep producing the content you enjoy? How can we create something special? How can we support emerging actors?” Kanayo questioned.
The seasoned Nollywood actor emphasized his desire to be selected for roles based on skill rather than fame. “I prefer not to be hired just because I'm a popular face on any platform. Choose me for my talent,” he insisted.
Despite his disappointment with the situation, the actor keeps a positive outlook. “I don’t understand why things in Nigeria often turn upside down, and that’s what’s happening now on YouTube. Yet, I want to stick to my life’s belief: this too shall pass,” he concluded.
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