Veteran Nollywood actress and filmmaker Omoni Oboli has shed light on a long-standing truth in the Nigerian film industry — popularity matters.

In a recent interview, the actress emphasized that being well-known significantly boosts an actor’s chances of landing roles, noting that casting decisions are often driven by how recognizable and marketable an actor is.

“The more popular you are, the more jobs you will get. It’s not just Nollywood — it’s like that all over the world,” she explained.

Oboli noted that while producers occasionally take risks on unknown talents, these fresh faces can quickly become “faves” when repeatedly cast and embraced by audiences. Once a new actor earns that status, other filmmakers are more likely to follow suit.

“People want to see their favorites. So yes, we use people that aren’t well known and help them grow. But when you become a household name, that visibility makes people click on your film. It’s about familiarity, trust, and love.”

She also highlighted the importance of strategic visibility and branding in building a successful acting career, stating that audiences often choose what to watch based on who they see on the cover.

This insight from Oboli, who has both starred in and produced numerous hit films, echoes a broader truth in entertainment: talent is crucial, but visibility amplifies opportunity