Veteran Nollywood actor, Collins Muonagor, recently exposed some hidden, troubling practices within the Nigerian movie industry, revealing why certain actresses seem to attain greater success than many of their male counterparts.
In a recent interview with “Rattle Nigeria,” Muonagor, who began his acting career in 2002, shared candid insights into the darker side of Nollywood.
“There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes in Nollywood that the public doesn’t see,” Muonagor said. “It’s an industry with a lot of envy, jealousy, backbiting, and desperation.”
Muonagor pointed out that some women are more financially successful because they engage in ‘hookup’ – a term often used to imply a form of transactional relationship or prostitution.
He recounted a situation where a female actor paid 500,000 naira just to have her face on a movie poster.
“She was part of the movie but she essentially bought the role. Many use that as a form of advertisement,” he explained. “Meanwhile, men are really struggling. If you’re a man and you want to make it in Nollywood, you need significant financial backing.”
Reflecting on his personal journey in Nollywood, Muonagor shared that he never compromised his values or reached out to directors or producers for roles.
“I’ve been in this industry for over two decades, and I’ve never called anyone to ask for work,” he noted. “I started with the best, and I’ve always let my talent speak for itself.”
Addressing issues of competition and casting favoritism, Muonagor said, “Some actors want to be the only face audiences see. It’s about competition, but if we can appreciate each actor’s uniqueness, our industry will grow.”
The actor also touched on what he believes is the unrealistic portrayal of life in many Nigerian films, saying that some plots feel contrived and too Westernized.
“For example, in movies, you see someone leave the village, find shelter in a church, and magically get picked up by a benefactor. That rarely happens in real life. When you come to Lagos, you’ll find all the church doors locked at night.”
Muonagor criticized the industry’s tendency to adopt foreign influences without adapting them meaningfully. “We’re quick to use our films to glorify the West while undermining our own culture. It’s time we tell stories that uplift our people and reflect the realities of Nigerian life.”
Reflecting on his personal life, he shared that since his marriage in 2014, he’s remained committed to his vows. “My wedding was a celebration with almost all of Nollywood in attendance, and I have honored that commitment ever since.”
For Muonagor, the key to a better Nollywood is appreciating and improving upon what’s already there, noting, “Instead of tearing our work down with negativity, let’s support each other and correct errors with a spirit of growth. No one is perfect, but we should focus on building our own.”
