Veteran Nollywood actor Nkem Owoh, widely known for his comic persona Osuofia, has opened up on how his journey into acting began in a way he never expected, describing it as something that happened by chance rather than a planned career move.
Speaking on a recent episode of the Selah Meditate podcast, the seasoned actor revealed that his initial passion was centered on writing scripts and working behind the scenes. According to him, he had no intention of appearing on screen, but colleagues who noticed his natural ability to make people laugh kept urging him to step in front of the camera.
He recalled that his first real push into performance came during his time with the former Anambra Television, where he was given a short stand up comedy segment that lasted about seven minutes in the 1980s. Although he was hesitant at first, repeated encouragement eventually led him to give it a try, and the response from viewers changed everything for him.
Owoh explained that the audience’s reaction was so positive that it became clear he had found a new path. What started as pressure from colleagues gradually turned into a full time acting career that would later make him one of the most recognisable faces in Nollywood, especially in comedy roles that defined an era.
Looking back on his rise to fame, the actor admitted that success in the entertainment industry came with unexpected challenges. While many people admire the glamour that comes with celebrity status, he pointed out that it often comes at the cost of personal freedom.
He noted that life as a public figure limits privacy and everyday comfort, making it difficult to move around or live as freely as before. According to him, fame brings visibility, but it also takes away a significant level of independence that many people do not consider at the beginning of their journey.
Owoh added that while he remains grateful for the opportunities his career has brought, the experience has also taught him that fame is not as simple as it appears from the outside.
