Nollywood actor and producer Emelu Simon Chibuzor has issued a strong caution to budding actresses, slamming the growing trend of body enhancement surgeries as a misguided shortcut to stardom in the Nigerian movie industry.
The veteran filmmaker dismissed allegations that directors and producers force young talents to undergo cosmetic procedures to secure movie roles, instead placing the blame on a lack of confidence and the desire for quick fame.
“Any actress who decides to go under the knife just to earn movie roles doesn’t know what she’s doing. If you are good, you are good, despite your looks.”
He argued that true talent will always shine through regardless of physical appearance, citing several established actresses who rose to household fame without resorting to body enhancement. According to the star-maker, who is credited with discovering talents like Zubby Michael, such surgeries have become an excuse for those unwilling to develop genuine acting skills.
Chibuzor’s candid warning comes amid growing concerns over the pressure on young women in Nollywood to meet unrealistic beauty standards in order to land major roles.
True to his words, Chibuzor is set to release his latest movie titled Dr Richael, which addresses the dangers of peer pressure on children and teenagers. He urged parents, especially those with girl children, to remain vigilant and observant.