Kanayo O. Kanayo Criticizes Nollywood’s Obsession with ‘Pretty Faces’
Nollywood legend Kanayo O. Kanayo is calling out what he sees as a troubling trend in Nigeria’s movie industry, particularly on YouTube, where popularity and looks now seem to overshadow actual acting skills. The veteran actor is no stranger to speaking his mind, and this time, he’s making it clear that talent should never take a backseat to hype.
Kanayo, born Anayo Modestus Onyekwere, is one of Nollywood’s original trailblazers, first shooting to fame in the 1992 hit film *Living in Bondage.* With over three decades in the business, he has built a reputation for championing quality storytelling and giving opportunities to deserving talent.
In a video message shared on Instagram, the actor revealed a personal shift in focus, announcing that he intends to spotlight fresh, lesser-known performers rather than recycle already famous faces. “Movie making is not about having a fine face, it’s about being a good actor, a good performer,” he declared. “So, with or without a fine face, that’s what I’ve decided to do. If you don’t like it, well, that’s quite unfortunate.”
Drawing from Nollywood’s early days, Kanayo recounted how sponsors once sidelined promising actors for not being “marketable,” effectively cutting short many careers. Now, he fears history is repeating itself, especially with the rise of YouTube-based productions dominated by a handful of recurring actors. According to him, this growing monopoly is suffocating creativity and denying opportunities to emerging stars.
The actor lamented that some performers have become so overbooked that they’re unavailable for nearly a year, leaving producers scrambling for content. He urged filmmakers to cast based on talent and not social media appeal. “Call me because I can deliver,” he said firmly, distancing himself from the trend of chasing “faces” over skill.
Kanayo also used his platform to invite up-and-coming talents to join him on his YouTube channel, *Kanayo O. Kanayo TV,* promising to create opportunities for actors with genuine ability. He expressed frustration over Nigeria’s recurring tendency to prioritize image over substance but remained optimistic, stating, “This too shall pass.”
With his outspoken stance, Kanayo is reigniting an important conversation about talent recognition in Nollywood, reminding audiences and creators alike that real artistry will always outshine hype.
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