Award-winning Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has opened up about the intense sacrifice she made behind the scenes of her success, revealing she stayed away from social life for three years to build her brand.
The movie star shared the personal story during a recent interview, explaining that her absence from parties, vacations, and public events was a deliberate career move.
“When I say hard work, I mean locking myself away in Amen Estate for two years building the Jenifa brand, working on Industreet, Aiyetoro, My Siblings and I, and other content,” she said.
According to her, the decision was not easy, but it was necessary.
“I deprived myself of vacations, parties, events, no friends, nothing, just me and my team, working tirelessly, creating and working hard to achieve the success many now see.”
Funke also addressed assumptions about her work style, saying she is deeply involved in every stage of production.
“When I am on the set of my films, I am not a diva, I am everywhere and very hands-on, no wig, just on my rough corn rows, working hard and seeing that everything is in perfect order.”
She added that the glamorous side people see only comes after the heavy work is done.
“I go through all that till work is done, and then we can now start preparing for marketing and all the glam and dancing.”
Funke Akindele is best known for the Jenifa franchise, one of Nollywood’s most successful comedy brands. Over the years, she has also delivered multiple box office hits and hit TV productions that helped shape modern Nigerian cinema.
Her story has sparked reactions online, with many fans praising her discipline and dedication to her craft.
Beyond her career, Funke was previously married to music producer Abdulrasheed Bello, known as JJC Skillz. The couple, who share twin boys, announced their separation in 2022.