Thursday, July 7, 2011
50 Cent Promises Eminem and Just Blaze Collabos On
Beyoncé Performs at Liberty Island for 4th of July
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
IYABO OJO,LIZZY ANJORIN RIFT TAKES A NEW DIMENSION
The long face-off between the two beautiful and delectable actresses never seemed to end as both met again at an event eyeing each other.
It should be recalled that Iyabo Ojo and Lizzy Anjorin have been at loggerheads for some time now over seniority in the make believe business and in age.
Iyabo Ojo is claiming to be older than Lizzy in age and acting while on the other hand Lizzy is looking down on Iyabo.In essence, these two actresses have been living the life of cat and rat in their daily activities.
Penultimate week, both were present at a birthday party organized by a renowned journalist, Mr.Kunle Rasheed,this event saw the presence of dark and light as Iyabo and Lizzy met there.
Immediately Lizzy got to the event, the scenario changed and she became a cynosure of eyes at the event.
Though,Iyabo Ojo who was strictly on black outfit and Lizzy who was in complete white outfit did not exchange words but often times, they were eyeing each other.
In essence, these two actresses are yet to resolve their differences.
It should be recalled that Iyabo Ojo and Lizzy Anjorin have been at loggerheads for some time now over seniority in the make believe business and in age.
Iyabo Ojo is claiming to be older than Lizzy in age and acting while on the other hand Lizzy is looking down on Iyabo.In essence, these two actresses have been living the life of cat and rat in their daily activities.
Penultimate week, both were present at a birthday party organized by a renowned journalist, Mr.Kunle Rasheed,this event saw the presence of dark and light as Iyabo and Lizzy met there.
Immediately Lizzy got to the event, the scenario changed and she became a cynosure of eyes at the event.
Though,Iyabo Ojo who was strictly on black outfit and Lizzy who was in complete white outfit did not exchange words but often times, they were eyeing each other.
In essence, these two actresses are yet to resolve their differences.
Politics? Count Me Out! - Genevieve Nnaji
In its 20 years of publishing, News/Politics magazine, TELL has never put a Nigerian entertainer on it's cover until Genevieve Nnaji graced one of its June editions. Here's some of what she told Lolade Adewuyi, senior assistant editor and Omoregbe Igiebor about D'Banj, Omotola Jalade, Goodluck Jonathan and the secrets of her success.
When Genevieve Nnaji emerged onto the poolside of the Four Points by Sheraton, Lekki for our interview, it was with the aura of a screen diva. With a face and a body that make many women envious and make men's jaws drop in awe, Nnaji, 32, maintains that she is your girl next door. This screen goddess remains grounded even with all of her achievements garnered over 12 years of acting in Nollywood, Nigeria's straight-to-video film industry. Her roles in films, performed with utmost believability, have been known to bring tears to the eyes of many young and old. In the last two years, however, Nnaji has been working on feature films as a way of taking her art to a wider audience.
The accolades have come in from abroad and she has not gone unnoticed in some of the biggest movie circles. Early this year she won the award for her breakthrough performance in The Mirror Boy at the Monaco Film Festival, France where Hollywood star Robert De Niro made a pleasant remark about her talents. This whipped up frenzy in online forums of an impending role in an upcoming James Bond movie. Nnaji, effusing humility, says she's expecting the best from the rumours and is waiting for a call from the producers of the spy movie. Having been described by no other person than talk show legend Oprah Winfrey as the Julia Roberts of Africa, Nnaji has found fame unnerving some times with its attendant headaches.
Every day in the life of someone as popular as she is brings its problems and this has made her a little reclusive. When other people go out, she stays indoors as an opportunity to unwind away from public glare. Mother to a 16-year-old girl, fashion designer, one-time singer, inconstant writer, serial single and a tabloid delight, Nnaji crams so much into her one life that makes her a pleasure to talk to. And she's also got interesting ideas about politics. If you thought the adorable movie star was just a pretty face, you had it all wrong as she gave her first interview to TELL, a magazine that she grew up reading at her dad's bedside. Nnaji shared her success secrets and more with Ololade Adewuyi, senior assistant editor and Omoregbe Igiebor recently. Excerpts:
What is it about Genevieve Nnaji that makes her tick?
I think (it is) just being me.
What kind of person are you outside of the TV screen?
I'm actually your everyday girl. I'm your regular next-door girl. I don't think there's anything necessarily special outside of the God-given talent that I have and that I've decided to put to use. Despite my shortcomings, despite my imperfection and it has worked for me. I just think I've been able to manage and make do with what I have and basically be content with what I have and make it work for me; and being able to do that regardless of naysayers and doubters and lack of support to keep my fans happy.
You started out as a regular girl. Twelve years down the line you're the biggest actress in Nigeria, what is the secret of your success in acting?
It has been nothing short of staying true to the art. I have stayed as professional as I can. I have given my work and my craft as much attention as it needed. I have respected myself as an artiste. I think just giving it your all and not deviating from the fact that all you want to do is act. That's all I focus on and you can tell that from my movies.
Times have changed, there was a time you were a constant face in all the movies we had, now we hardly see you, can you tell us what you're working on these days?
The reason for the change is that Nollywood was all about quantity in the beginning and it's growing and evolving. With evolving comes change and with change we hope, comes improvement. I've decided that I want to be among the change in time. I'm going to help it improve and in doing that you have to watch out for the kind of jobs you do, the kind of jobs you want Nollywood to shell out. You support the kind of movies you want people to see Nollywood producing. So far, I've been privileged to have done a few features like Ije, Tango With Me (that is in cinemas now) and The Mirror Boy, which is going to be premiered here soon. I have enjoyed working in a professional environment and I don't see myself going back into that mediocrity that we were so used to in Nollywood.
How has The Mirror Boy impacted on your career?
It has done the same thing Ije and Tango With Me have done. It was less challenging than Ije and Tango, to be honest. But it was a good thing because it was the first time I was shooting in the UK and it was the first time I was visiting The Gambia. So it was good to play somebody outside a Nigerian because I played a Gambian (woman). I don't think I did anything extraordinarily necessarily because the script was originally written for a Nigerian setting.
Let me take you to Ije where you starred opposite Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, over time there have been stories of an intense rivalry between the two of you, the biggest female actors in Nollywood. Was there really a rivalry?
There's competition in any field. Rivalry is a personal thing, you choose who you want to see as your rival. I do not see anyone as a rival but I have competition. There's competition out there because you know the only actress who is good but when you see someone as your rival, it means the person intimidates you. I'm sorry, but I'm not one of those because I think everybody is unique in (his or her) own way and all I do is focus on what I can do. I will never try to outdo anyone. I'm going to try to continue being the best I can but I'm not going to work with somebody as a yardstick or somebody I want to outplay. Because if you do, you will either over-act or under-act and you just won't be yourself. So in terms of rivalry, no it was a rumour.
When you acted with Omotola in Ije, how was your relationship on set?
Omotola and I are colleagues. We are not friends in the sense that she's one of the people I hang out with – my buddies. In the entertainment industry, she's one of the people that I respect as an actor. Acting with her is always interesting. She is a unique individual. She is very entertaining and you just have to learn to deal with everybody individually. And that applies to her and everyone else.
Where is Nollywood heading 10 years from now?
It's a slow and steady process and we are getting there. I see a recession right now and there is a change that is coming to Nollywood. It's obvious. Having had such great attention from President Goodluck Jonathan, just that embrace from the private sector, from the banking sector, from a lot of people who are coming in now and showing lots of interest that means there is room for change. Even having the funds that the President has given us to help improve production shows that change is coming. The change will come, (but) not everybody might be part of it but a new industry is building and it has to be one that would only carry along people who are passionate about the craft and not people who are there for the fame and the money but basically true talents. Continued...
When Genevieve Nnaji emerged onto the poolside of the Four Points by Sheraton, Lekki for our interview, it was with the aura of a screen diva. With a face and a body that make many women envious and make men's jaws drop in awe, Nnaji, 32, maintains that she is your girl next door. This screen goddess remains grounded even with all of her achievements garnered over 12 years of acting in Nollywood, Nigeria's straight-to-video film industry. Her roles in films, performed with utmost believability, have been known to bring tears to the eyes of many young and old. In the last two years, however, Nnaji has been working on feature films as a way of taking her art to a wider audience.
The accolades have come in from abroad and she has not gone unnoticed in some of the biggest movie circles. Early this year she won the award for her breakthrough performance in The Mirror Boy at the Monaco Film Festival, France where Hollywood star Robert De Niro made a pleasant remark about her talents. This whipped up frenzy in online forums of an impending role in an upcoming James Bond movie. Nnaji, effusing humility, says she's expecting the best from the rumours and is waiting for a call from the producers of the spy movie. Having been described by no other person than talk show legend Oprah Winfrey as the Julia Roberts of Africa, Nnaji has found fame unnerving some times with its attendant headaches.
Every day in the life of someone as popular as she is brings its problems and this has made her a little reclusive. When other people go out, she stays indoors as an opportunity to unwind away from public glare. Mother to a 16-year-old girl, fashion designer, one-time singer, inconstant writer, serial single and a tabloid delight, Nnaji crams so much into her one life that makes her a pleasure to talk to. And she's also got interesting ideas about politics. If you thought the adorable movie star was just a pretty face, you had it all wrong as she gave her first interview to TELL, a magazine that she grew up reading at her dad's bedside. Nnaji shared her success secrets and more with Ololade Adewuyi, senior assistant editor and Omoregbe Igiebor recently. Excerpts:
What is it about Genevieve Nnaji that makes her tick?
I think (it is) just being me.
What kind of person are you outside of the TV screen?
I'm actually your everyday girl. I'm your regular next-door girl. I don't think there's anything necessarily special outside of the God-given talent that I have and that I've decided to put to use. Despite my shortcomings, despite my imperfection and it has worked for me. I just think I've been able to manage and make do with what I have and basically be content with what I have and make it work for me; and being able to do that regardless of naysayers and doubters and lack of support to keep my fans happy.
You started out as a regular girl. Twelve years down the line you're the biggest actress in Nigeria, what is the secret of your success in acting?
It has been nothing short of staying true to the art. I have stayed as professional as I can. I have given my work and my craft as much attention as it needed. I have respected myself as an artiste. I think just giving it your all and not deviating from the fact that all you want to do is act. That's all I focus on and you can tell that from my movies.
Times have changed, there was a time you were a constant face in all the movies we had, now we hardly see you, can you tell us what you're working on these days?
The reason for the change is that Nollywood was all about quantity in the beginning and it's growing and evolving. With evolving comes change and with change we hope, comes improvement. I've decided that I want to be among the change in time. I'm going to help it improve and in doing that you have to watch out for the kind of jobs you do, the kind of jobs you want Nollywood to shell out. You support the kind of movies you want people to see Nollywood producing. So far, I've been privileged to have done a few features like Ije, Tango With Me (that is in cinemas now) and The Mirror Boy, which is going to be premiered here soon. I have enjoyed working in a professional environment and I don't see myself going back into that mediocrity that we were so used to in Nollywood.
How has The Mirror Boy impacted on your career?
It has done the same thing Ije and Tango With Me have done. It was less challenging than Ije and Tango, to be honest. But it was a good thing because it was the first time I was shooting in the UK and it was the first time I was visiting The Gambia. So it was good to play somebody outside a Nigerian because I played a Gambian (woman). I don't think I did anything extraordinarily necessarily because the script was originally written for a Nigerian setting.
Let me take you to Ije where you starred opposite Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, over time there have been stories of an intense rivalry between the two of you, the biggest female actors in Nollywood. Was there really a rivalry?
There's competition in any field. Rivalry is a personal thing, you choose who you want to see as your rival. I do not see anyone as a rival but I have competition. There's competition out there because you know the only actress who is good but when you see someone as your rival, it means the person intimidates you. I'm sorry, but I'm not one of those because I think everybody is unique in (his or her) own way and all I do is focus on what I can do. I will never try to outdo anyone. I'm going to try to continue being the best I can but I'm not going to work with somebody as a yardstick or somebody I want to outplay. Because if you do, you will either over-act or under-act and you just won't be yourself. So in terms of rivalry, no it was a rumour.
When you acted with Omotola in Ije, how was your relationship on set?
Omotola and I are colleagues. We are not friends in the sense that she's one of the people I hang out with – my buddies. In the entertainment industry, she's one of the people that I respect as an actor. Acting with her is always interesting. She is a unique individual. She is very entertaining and you just have to learn to deal with everybody individually. And that applies to her and everyone else.
Where is Nollywood heading 10 years from now?
It's a slow and steady process and we are getting there. I see a recession right now and there is a change that is coming to Nollywood. It's obvious. Having had such great attention from President Goodluck Jonathan, just that embrace from the private sector, from the banking sector, from a lot of people who are coming in now and showing lots of interest that means there is room for change. Even having the funds that the President has given us to help improve production shows that change is coming. The change will come, (but) not everybody might be part of it but a new industry is building and it has to be one that would only carry along people who are passionate about the craft and not people who are there for the fame and the money but basically true talents. Continued...
Amber Rose denies Music Meet Runway too
The American, like Nigerian singer, Darey, who was announced as co-host of the show, revealed via her twitter handle, DaRealAmberRose, that she isn’t scheduled to host the event.
“Hey, my Nigerian Rosebuds, I am NOT booked for anything in Nigeria at all. If I’m not booked thru info@behindhershades.com then it’s not real,” Rose twitted in the early hours of Monday, July 4, 2011.
“I [would] LOVE to come to Nigeria if u guys really want me there. [Please] book me thru info@behindhershades.com,” a later tweet from the controversial supermodel, popular for dating rap star, Kanye West, reads.
Last week, management of the Sound City Music Video award winner, Darey, issued an official statement disclaiming any arrangement for the singer to co-host the show with the American model, while threatening legal actions against the organisers of the show.
Big Sam Media, publicist for Music Meet Runway, announced early last week that the event, which is scheduled for Saturday, July 9, 2011, will be hosted by Darey and Amber Rose and will feature performances from popular Nigerian acts including Naeto C, Duncan Mighty, Dr Sid, D’ Prince, Sasha, Shank, amongst others.
BREAKING NEWS; YORUBA MOVIE STAR WUNMI ROBBED
News filtering in reveal that popular Yoruba actress Hassanat Taiwo Akinwande popularly known as Wunmi was robbed on Sunday, July 3rd 2011 at her residence somewhere in Ijede, Ikorodu Lagos.
According to sources, the hoodlums broke into her apartment at about 10:45am and carted away jewelries, unspecified sum of money and other valuables.
During the raid, which lasted several hours, residents of the town were thrown into confusion and shock, as they could not be helped by any security operatives.
We learnt the robbers didn't hurt her but only took away her valuables.
According to sources, the hoodlums broke into her apartment at about 10:45am and carted away jewelries, unspecified sum of money and other valuables.
During the raid, which lasted several hours, residents of the town were thrown into confusion and shock, as they could not be helped by any security operatives.
We learnt the robbers didn't hurt her but only took away her valuables.
Rating the ladies performance in African Movies
Of course the movers and shakers when it comes to the ladies is cast in stone. Their names ring bells and you can in a twinkle of an eye call out strings of movies under their fold. So who are the coasters, those who barely get a lead role in a movie? Those who are dependent to ride on the shoulders the more established names? What really doesn’t make them top notch and rather continuously remain under the shadows? Well, let’s take a quick peek at some of them:
Queen Nwokoye
Now Queen is one I am disappointed in. After her movie “Speak the Word,” I chased after every single Queen movie and it went from bad to worse. her weaves became longer and more atrocious and her acting skills went into the blazes. Right now, I by-pass every single movie she is in because it will be a headache and cause brain damage to watch.
Ebube Nwagbo
Sweet girl with the potential to blow up into making a very strong movie but she is as flat as a tortilla. I am writing and racking my brain for some strong role she has played but I can’t think of any. I can remember some movies she’s done, but her performance has not brought me to tears before.
Juliet Ibrahim
Another coaster. I can’t for the life of me remember even one movie I know her for. The few movies I recall about her are just stereotypes after stereotypes. Forever playing supporting roles because she simply can’t carry a film.
Tonto Dike
She is on the list because she just needs to be on the list. Bad actress, over-hyped. I remember her not because she’s made a memorable movie but because she is so atrocious.
Chika Ike
Add over acting to her credentials and you’ve got cannot act plus number 1 forget me quickly actress. What dynamic role has this girl played? She’s always shouting, talking too fast or making faces.
Uche Iwuji
What can we say about this girl? She needs divine intervention. Bad actress, forever coaster. Her claim to fame is granting nonsense interviews and attending functions. Not one memorable movie.
So let cap it with a quick word from Misstilli’s blog. Everyone needs to read this:
“Word of advice to all actors and actresses -I have said it here and i will say it again – unless you have a one breakthrough movie with a phenomenal performance that audience will ALWAYS remember, all you are doing is just coasting along and getting paid and in today’s industry there are a lot of “coasting along” type actors and actresses (typical example: Chika Ike – not one memorable movie / performance girl has done to date -ultimate coaster). You need to aim to get a good script with a good director to make you the headline and for you to give us (the audience) the best performance ever, that will forever remain in our memory and of course that’s when your name also sticks in our heads and we shall call you a household names – an actor or an actress the majority remember – remembered for your great performance – and not your looks. Once you have acted for at least 3 odd years always playing a friend/daughter/son etc in roles, it’s about time to move on up, and convince someone to cast you in a lead (pray about it) – if you deserve it by your great performance. Yes it is easier said than done to get a big headline role, but maybe in your little role if you act excellent someone might take notice and give you a chance. Uche Iwuji started acting in Jurassic Park days (meaning “long long time”) and forever played a friend in every role until she slowly faded out and we don’t see her anymore. She had great potential but it didn’t go far.”
There are coasters among the men too. Maybe would profile them as well in the near future. Do you have any such list for men in mind? Send us an email. Share your thoughts.
Monday, July 4, 2011
What is the issue with being married to a white man?
Kate Henshaw Nutall was recently under the spot light when it was reported of her untoward comments regarding marriage to native Nigerian as opposed to their foreign counterparts. In this interview however, Kate focused her comments generally about her career which has spanned over seventeen years, and motherhood.
SEVENTEEN years in the movie industry and you are still giving no sign of getting tired, what has been the secret?
My brother, the secret is God. I try as much as possible to put my best in my profession and I am very committed to my job. Our job is very demanding so you have to be up and doing to meet up, I always try to relax when I can, do a little exercise to calm my body. Basically, the stage is hard work and one needs God in every stage to bring out the best from what one does. I thank God for everything I have attained and what I am aspiring to become. I don’t rush things and I treat issues as they come. For seventeen years I have gone through the whole thing as an actress, God has been so wonderful and I can say I have enjoyed tremendous time in the industry.
What was your growing up like?
Growing up for me was quite a lot of fun with my siblings and my parents. We were very comfortable. We travelled a lot as a family and were taught good values as children; to be respectful to elders, to do house work and homework. My parents did not spare the rod and spoil their children. Our growing up was very disciplined.
How did the seventeen years journey start?
I have always grown with the passion for acting and music but all I needed was a perfect opportunity. The late J.T. TomWest took me to my ver-y first audition for a film titled “WHEN THE SUN SETS” and from there began my journey into the industry now known as Nollywood. From that very point, roles started coming in, from soap operas to top Nigerian movies and to the level we are today. It has been a superb transformation for me and I thank God for my career.
But we learnt that you were said to be turning your back against Nollywood, what prompted this?
I never said anything like that, as a matter of fact I have a film which I featured and was released last week, a movie produced by Saidi Balogun, ‘Eti Keta’. There is nothing like being out of movies for me. In fact, I do not remember saying such a sweeping statement. I have had quite a number of scripts and have turned down some because they didn’t go well with me but I have no intention of quitting, at least not yet. The industry is large and I don’t have to be jumping up and down because I want to get scripts. I am comfortable with the level I have attained so far as far as the movie industry is concerned. I am planning quite a number of things; when I am done you will see them.
You can barely speak Yoruba, how did you manage to cope with the script and the faces on set?
The experience was very interesting and fascinating. Being a part of the cast of the movie was very exciting for me andI took it on as a challenge. I do not speak Yoruba fluently at all. A few times in the past I have tried to string sentences together but I always got laughed at so I never summoned up the courage to speak again. So, to be asked to be part of a Yoruba film was a bit nerving for me but I never back down from a challenge. At the end of the day I got compliments for my role and everybody was happy together because of the love that exists.
Why did you take the role?
I love challenges a lot and I always want to do new things that would task my ability. Apart from that, I took the role because many years ago, Saidi was a part of the cast of a film I also starred in a Charles Novia film “YOU BROKE MY HEART” and he had said to me then that he would want me on one of his film projects and I had said yes to him. My word is important to me. I kept my word. The pre-production stage was very lovely, I was treated very nicely. The producer of the movie, Saidi Balogun was fantastic and quite good. We all worked together like one family and the experience was lovely.
What is your take on Nollywood?
Nollywood has come some distance. It has thrived and has survived on its own steam and effort. It is getting better and the quality has improved tremendously. We are developing very fast and people are becoming to see the beauty that is enmeshed in the industry, we are growing bigger everyday because of opportunities abound in the industry. Nevertheless, we are not resting on our oars. We keep trying to find new ways to improve. A few years ago Nollywood films were not in the cinemas, now they are, alongside western movies. We have so far recorded a landmark achievement and this is as a result of hard work and dedication to our job. From the point we are now; It is clear that we are moving on.
But some of your colleagues have pulled out because of poor remuneration?
Well, compared to seventeen years ago that I joined, I believe the remuneration for actors are a lot better but in this economic clime that we are in, I guess the naira does not go very far. The fees could be a lot better. Things can only get better and I also believe that what we do is no joke and doesn’t come easy; I think we should be paid well so that we can continue to give our best and everybody can laugh in the long run. The industry is growing extensively; with new beautiful faces coming up, I believe things will continue to improve for the better.
With the new charming faces springing up, are you not jittery that they may take your place?
Why would I? My driving force over the years has been my belief that what I have is a gift from God since I am not a theater arts graduate. My desire to be professional and to be associated with good work. Giving my best to every project that I am a part of to the best of my ability. I am a professional actress to the core with thriving and fulfilling years. We are all one family and nobody is competing; we are happily united. Our people are still out there, but still need to do good work. They still fight to do the things that are important.
You are married to a white man, what attracted you to him?
What is the issue with being married to a white man? I just wish the press would stop asking me that question one day. I am happily married and I thank God for every blessed day. My husband has been quite supportive of my career as an actress, even before we got married.
You are one of the many nollywood screen divers that scooped the Globacom deal, how did you achieve this?
I think you will have to ask the company how I got the deal, because it is not in my place to tell you that, but what I can tell you is that the deal came to me and it put all of us who are the brand ambassadors on a different level. Globacom showed its support and love for nollywood in this way. We appreciate the company for recognizing our work and the industry. It is a big advancement.
But some people alleged that some of you came in through the back door?
The truth is that I didn’t know anybody at Globacom before they called me. They just called me up. I have been a brand ambassador for ONGA SEASONING going to four years now. I also have a few charities that I support, like Project Alert on violence against women and children National Cervical Cancer Prevention Programme and I am also an ambassador of The Nigerian Women Trust Fund.
How have you been able to juggle the two roles together without conflict of interest?
There has been no conflict of interest because one is a seasoning and the other is telecommunications.
As an Ambassador, do you feel different and what has it cost you?
It has kept me busy and made me recognize the fact that apart from being an actress, I also represent big brands that should benefit from my status in the society. I must not adversely affect the brand. It has not cost me anything other than the fact that I am an ambassador and I have to always live like one. A big price has been paid in terms of the loss of my privacy. That is the sacrifice I made for the job I love. Another thing is trying to be an inspiration for others.
You studied Medical Laboratory Sciences, why the change of focus?
I studied Medical laboratory sciences and majored in Medical Microbiology. The change of focus was by chance and I actually found my real passion in acting. So, basically it was not planned at all. But I thank God for the way things have turned out.
So what are your turn-off and turn-off?
Definitely, my turn-ons are good people with a kind heart. People that are generous to others around them. I also admire people with a good sense of humor. Selflessness is the final but not the least. My turns off are greed, wickedness and selfishness.
With all these commitments, how do you relax?
NOT A BIG DEAL IF I DATE YINKA QUADRI.ACTRESS BISI KOMOLAFE
Excerpts from the interview;
It is alleged that your mother introduced you to Yinka Quadri, while a version say that it was Ogogo your mother introduced you to. Which is correct?
Yinka Quadri is my boss. My mum introduced me to Ogogo.
Ogogo’s uncle’s wife is my aunt. That was how I met Ogogo but when I got to Odunfa caucus,I met Yinka Quadri.He has always been a father, a boss. He has been so good to me.It was Ogogo that brought me to the movie industry.
People alleged that you are dating Yinka Quadri, is it true?
Thank God you know Yinka Quadri.He is not my uncle, neither is he my father or brother. If I date him is it wrong?
I worked for Yinka Quadri, I am still working for him, even after my graduation. I am still working for him. Now that I am whatever people call me; I am still working for him. He calls me once and I answered 10 times.
He is my boss. He is not just a boss; he is a very good person. The truth is that we are so close but I am not sleeping with him. I am not dating him.
It was still alleged that he got you an apartment in Ikorodu?
A whole lot of actors and actresses know my house because they shoot in my house; I entertain them in my house.
Yinka Quadri did not get the house for me.
The tale also has it that you and Yinka Quadri parted ways because you met a rich man who impregnated you?
I want to tell you this, if I get pregnant for my fiancé is it a big deal? Right now, I am not pregnant. It was last year they said I was pregnant. Is it possible for me to be pregnant since last year and I have not delivered the baby? If I meet any rich man today, it does not stop me from respecting my boss; it also doesn’t stop me from getting married.
Yinka has grown up children who are married and well settled, he wouldn’t wish me anything negative. He wants the best for me; he always prays that I get a good husband.
It was even alleged that the rich man got you apartment that is why you moved from the apartment Yinka got for you?
Oh my God, I am still living in my apartment. Everybody knows my house because they shoot there.So,it is not true.
Why do you think all these tales are flying around about you?
What I will say is that, it is normal. But people that say things like these are jobless. Imagine someone who is very busy would not have time for rubbish! You need to find out the truth. We all have our shortcomings, so it is not a big deal.
We are all human. Some people call you their friend, yet they keep on spreading rumours about you. They even said I walked up to Yinka and we had a shouting match.
How on earth will I stand before him and do that. Even if I smoked marijuana, I shouldn’t be as bad as that.
The press is also not helping matters, they just write anything about you. My sister-in-law called me after reading the headline of a magazine to find out what was going on. Funny enough, when she opened the magazine, it was a different thing entirely they wrote.
ACTRESS COSSY ORJIAKOR SPITS FIRE ON FACE BOOK
Her face book status on Wednesday, June 22, 2011 read thus;”Wives, please hold your Husbands. If you are married to or a girl friend to Oyi Vitus Obunike or Oraniaka Patrick, please tell these old men to leave me alone. If you are not satisfying them sexually then go for some training.
My inbox is filled up with their messages, now they are turning nasty.Please, it’s not by force, get a life, am living mine, delete yourselves and let me be.
It should be recalled that Cossy is the only Nollywood artistes that throw open her phone numbers and contact on face book.
IF I WOULD MARRY D'BANJ,I DON'T KNOW.ACTRESS GENEVIEVE NNAJI
Excerpts from the interview;
You had a brilliant music video with Dbanj in Fall in Love, you guys had great chemistry and there have been rumours that you two are an item. He was at your birthday party in London in May, if all the circumstances are right, will you say yes to marriage with Dbanj?
First of all I have to agree within myself that I actually want to get married. If I would marry him, I don’t know. I think my life is already chaotic as it is being one celebrity. So, it’s a no.
When you talk about not getting married, what is it with marriage that you find repulsive?
No, I don’t find marriage repulsive but everyday I learn from married people about what not to do when it comes to marriage. I think I’ve just learnt the bad things about marriage before the good ones. There is constant discouragement but I just know for a fact that when I find the right person I will definitely not think about it. Marriage should be about finding the right person, finding your soul mate, not necessarily in receiving love.
You’ve not met that person yet?
I’m 32, I’ve been busy for 12 years and I’m still busy.
Seeing that you’re so busy, how can a guy break down the barriers and show love to you?
If I have to tell a guy what to do then he’s not a man! (Laughs).
BREAKING NEWS; KING SUNNY ADE CONFIRMED AS A LECTURER AT THE OBAFEMI AWOLOWO UNIVERSITY
confirmed as a lecturer at the Obafemi Awolowo University Ile Ife.
Congrats sir.
Ruggedman, 9ice Fight Again
The acrimony between two leading musicians, Michael Ugochukwu, a.k.a Ruggedman and Akande Abolore also known as 9ice, has taken a turn for the worse, with Ruggedman boasting that “9ice is my boy. He met his wife through me.”
9ice’s estranged wife, Toni Payne, is at the centre of the strained relationship between the erstwhile best friends.
Just as the acrimony between Ruggedman and 9ice was ebbing, the former again stirred the hornet’s nest in a new Yomba TV programme called Gbamu Gbanu.
Speaking in Yoruba language on a television programme Gbamu Gbamu, which will hit the screens on African Magic Yoruba on DSTV by 1 July 2011, Ruggedman said that 9ice had his first major break when he brought him on stage at a Nigerian Breweries show held at Mothelan’, Opebi, Ikeja. about six years ago.
He said that at the show, he introduced Toni Pyne to him and that was how they started, adding, “I don’t know that it is a crime to introduce someone to a woman. I wouldn’t have done that.”
Ruggedy Baba, as Ruggedman is also called by friends and fans, said when the story was making the rounds, he was waiting for 9ice to debunk it and since he failed to do so, he decided to state his own side, declaring, “he is a boy I trained by taking him to shows and that was what gave birth to the song, Opomulero.”
Gbenga Adeyinka, the brain behind the television programme, a top comedian and master of ceremonies, said Gbamu Gbamu, which has different segments like jokes, mock news and interviews, among others, is a way of bringing out his talent to show that he can also present a Yoruba programme.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Elijah Wood returning to NZ
Elijah Wood will head back to New Zealand in October to resume the role of Frodo Baggins from The Lord of the Rings trilogy in The Hobbit, directed by Peter Jackson.
Wood says he's "really excited" about it and compares it to a family reunion.
"It's not often in your life that you get to revisit such a significant time in your life," Wood said.
New Zealand is also where Wood started DJing for fun. An avid music lover, Wood even gets hired to do it.
"I brought down like 4 Case Logics full of CD's because I was there for so long. We DJ'd a couple of parties and Dom (Monaghan) and I DJ'd together and we'd played at bars and I was just playing songs. ... Now I'm doing it more frequently and being asked to DJ."
Stepping back into Frodo's shoes may take some getting used to for Woods, who admits his latest acting gig is "absurd".
The actor stars in the new US cable tv show Wilfred, playing a depressed guy named Ryan who is on the verge of suicide. He finds a new zest for life while hanging out with his neighbor's dog Wilfred, except this dog is quite different.
As Ryan sees it, Wilfred is a talking man in a dog suit who also smokes cigarettes.
"There were days where there would just be absurd situations that my character and Wilfred would get into and you'd step out of that and thing 'what are we doing? What total madness are we creating?" Wood said. "And there was a gleefulness associated with it like wow, this is really bizarre and wonderful and it was a joy. So much fun."
The show, based on a hit comedy in Australia, had 2.6 million viewers when it premiered June 23. That's the best ratings News Corp's FX channel has ever had for a comedy.
Wood says over the course of the season the character of a stuffed bear that Wilfred is drawn to will be developed.
"There's an interesting parallel because Ryan is the only one to see Wilfred as a man in a dog suit and Wilfred refers to this bear as having its own personality as well, but we never see bear move or talk. It's very weird."
Jonathan Rhys Meyers 'suicidal'
Jonathan Rhys Meyers has been discharged from hospital after an alleged suicide attempt.
The 33-year-old Irish actor, who resides in London, was taken to hospital by ambulance on Tuesday night after reportedly downing pills.
According to British newspaper The Sun, paramedics answering an emergency call discovered The Tudors actor on the floor of his £3 million home. They were reportedly forced to call police after he refused treatment for over 30 minutes.
"This is very sad. It was the opinion of those present that he tried to take his life," a source told the publication.
Jonathan was discharged in the early hours yesterday and told The Sun "no comment", when asked how he was.
One of his female neighbours had expressed her concern for the actor, explaining how friendly he is.
"I saw the ambulance arriving and was worried to death," said the resident.
"Jonathan is a lovely guy. You see him all the time in the street. He says hello and is very pleasant. I hope he is fine."
Jonathan recently left a five-star rehabilitation centre in South Africa, and has struggled with alcohol issues for some time. The actor has spoken in the past about his drinking problem.
"When I do drink I'm like Bambi. I'm all over the place like a 16-year-old kid," he is quoted as saying.
R.I.P. Christie Essien Igbokwe
It was sad to hear the passing away of one of Nigeria’s musical legends I’ve always loved and cherished. She stood toe to toe musically with her male counterparts in the 80s and her 1981 “Ever Liked My Person” LP took her beyond the shores of Africa.
Christy Uduak Essien-Igbokwe born on 11th November 1960, was the Nigeria’s lady of songs. During her heyday she was the grand dame of Nigerian pop music, and nicknamed the ‘First Lady of Song’. She began her musical career in Secondary School singing at various clubs. In 1976 she joined the satirical NTA series Masquerade. Her short role in that popular sitcom put her to the limelight and in 1977 she launched a professional music career, aged 17.
Many of her albums became hit records, but none came close to the success of her 1981 hit album “Ever Liked My Person” which had the massive hit track “Seun Rere” produced by Lemmy Jackson. She helped put Nigeria’s name on the world music map with this evergreen track.
Always at the forefront of issues affecting women and children, she played remarkable roles in some of the early Nollywood flicks such as Flesh and Blood and Scars of Womanhood, both of which addressed issues of child abuse and female circumcision.
With a desire to make life better for Nigerian artists, she is credited as having initiated the first meeting that brought about the formation of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria, PMAN in 1981. A year later, PMAN was founded and King Sunny Ade became the president with the late Sonny Okosuns as his vice, while she was the National Treasurer. Between 1996 and 1999, she became the first female PMAN president.
Her Honours include Nigerian lady of songs award, Africa music mother award 1984, international special achievement award Mexico 1983 world song festival award Los Angeles queen of music international award association of theatre arts practitioners Lagos 1996 outstanding achievement in female uplifting, just to mention a few. She has also contributed enormously to nation building, peace and tolerance – which, alongside moral uprightness, remain constant themes of her songs.
Till her death, she was the chairman and managing director of Soul Train entertainment limited. She had her Golden Jubilee last year November 11. She was our Golden Diva.
R.I.P. Christie Essien Igbokwe
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