Veteran actress and filmmaker Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, popularly known as Omo Sexy, shares with Naomi Chima her journey through Nollywood, reflecting on her rise to fame, battles with industry politics, near-death surgery, creative reinvention, and life beyond the screen.

On maintaining her timeless glow:
“I simply embrace who I am and relax. I avoid forcing things or doing anything artificial that stresses my body or mind. I take life easy, stay happy, and leave the rest to God,” she says.

How acting began:
“I started acting after escorting a friend to a movie audition. I was waiting for my JAMB results and wanted to support my mum after school. I tried modelling first, but one day, at a slow audition, I decided to check a nearby movie audition. I went in, gave it my all, and got the part. That marked the beginning of my acting journey.”

Fame then versus now:
“Before social media, fame was tricky. Junk magazines often wrote sensational stories, causing unnecessary panic among family and fans. Later, social media changed everything—first websites and blogs, then Facebook. I was active online, and my pages gained massive attention, allowing fans to interact directly. Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and Twitter followed, but with Twitter came toxic trolling, which made many of my peers step back. The younger generation is still navigating these stages.”

Roles that reflect her true self:
“No single role represents me fully. I’ve realized I’m an ambivert—extroverted only around people I trust, but mostly introverted. Publicly, my quiet nature is often mistaken for pride or snobbishness, which is why I avoid parties; my social energy depletes quickly.”

Gratitude over 30 years in the industry:
“I’m grateful for many things at different stages—accepting Christ at 15, marrying the right person, shaping my career despite obstacles, international work that broadened my perspective, recognitions like TIME 100, and humanitarian work with the UN World Food Programme, Amnesty International, Save the Children UK, ONE, and Enough is Enough Nigeria. Advocacy is a core part of who I am.”

On directing and her recent movie:
“Though I’ve been called a director for years, I only recently directed professionally. The inspiration for Mother’s Love came after moving to Hollywood and seeing the potential of YouTube for full-length films. We shot a short film, RR, in four days despite challenges, which gave me the courage to make Mother’s Love.”

Marriage secrets:
“God’s grace is central. My husband and I share the same faith, which is our foundation. He’s mature, values peace, doesn’t compete with me, and manages our home. Misunderstandings happen, but we always return to that foundation.”

Parenting style:
“I wanted to avoid raising my children with fear. My husband and I maintain respect and discipline, but also love. Our approach has helped our children grow into well-behaved adults.”

Life-saving surgery experience:
“My surgery was terrifying. I had been overworking, sleeping only two hours a day, and ignoring warning signs. After emergency surgery, I learned my gallbladder had to be removed via open surgery, leaving a scar. I advise anyone feeling sharp pains in their chest or back to get a scan immediately.”

Views on Nollywood today:
“Nollywood lacks structure. I’ve always fought for professionalism, even if it meant being blacklisted. I started Tefes to formalize the industry and raise standards. In other countries, entertainers have salaries and pensions. Nollywood projects Nigeria globally, but we need functional guilds, less politics, and more professionalism.”

Advice for young actors and influencers:
“Acting is a lifelong craft, unlike music, which may peak quickly. Don’t rely solely on acting for income—have a side business. Build a brand that stands for something. Protect your public image by living wisely; it’s not about being perfect, but disciplined.”

Addressing reports of being banned:
“That’s false. I asked for fair pay and professionalism, not greed. I insisted crew members were treated properly, which made me a target, but I have no regrets.”

Music career:
“I have two albums, Gba Gbe E and Me, Myself and I, available on all platforms. Music became secondary due to acting, but I plan to continue merging it with my films.”

Career challenges:
“My career has been a long, challenging journey. I’ve refused to give up, and I’m proud of that resilience.”

Favourite food and relaxation:
“I love seafood, though not fish. I relax by spending time with family, visiting spas, or travelling. I’m fiercely private, which helps me recharge.”

Style influence:
“I don’t follow trends or brands; I buy what I like. Sexy, for me, is about confidence and comfort, not revealing clothes.”

Relocating abroad:
“The move wasn’t because of the country’s situation but about timing and opportunity. COVID-19 changed my perspective on life. Living abroad humbled me, teaching discipline, organisation, and that nothing is guaranteed.”