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Nollywood actress and producer, Yetunde Alabi, popularly known as Ashabi, speaks on industry pressures, sexual advances, and not compromising values for ro
Actress and producer, Yetunde Alabi, popularly known as Ashabi, has opened up on the pressures of the movie industry, saying no role is worth compromising one’s values.
Ashabi said she had heard about sexual pressure in Nollywood but had never personally experienced uncomfortable sexual advances in exchange for roles.
“I haven’t encountered any uncomfortable sexual pressure. If you set boundaries, people won’t try such with you. I set boundaries. Work is work,” she said.
According to Ashabi, aspiring actors must understand that sacrificing their values for a role could create a cycle that may be difficult to escape. She said, “No role is worth losing yourself over. If you let somebody get down with you because of a role, how about the next script? ”Ashabi also stated that her rise in Nollywood was gradual, saying she started with small roles and learnt by watching established actors.
Reflecting on the challenges she faced, Ashabi said there were times she felt overlooked and underestimated, but she refused to compromise herself for quick success.
“My philosophy in life is, I would rather build slowly than compromise myself just to arrive quickly,” she said. Ashabi also addressed rivalry among actresses, noting that although competition was inevitable in an industry with many talented women competing for limited opportunities, she had learnt not to interpret every disappointment as jealousy. ICYMI: Nkechi Blessing, others mourn as Nollywood actor Cjay Nwokafor dies She said, “Sometimes you’re simply not the person’s choice or your personality doesn’t match.
Sometimes there’s no competition. And sometimes some people just behave badly. ” The actress further spoke about comments on her complexion, facial features and body, saying she had learnt not to build her identity around other people’s opinions. Ashabi also said she is comfortable with her dark skin and natural features, adding that she deliberately allows her audience to see her without heavy styling.
She also disclosed that fame had cost her some privacy, but had given her a platform to tell stories, create opportunities and connect with people.
“Fame has taken away a certain level of privacy. There are things I do casually that I can’t do anymore,” she said. All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
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