Nollywood powerhouse Funke Akindele has given fans a rare and emotional look behind her public smile, revealing that even the woman widely known as the Minister of Happiness has moments when she cries, locks herself in a room and breaks down completely.
In a candid conversation with CNN’s Larry Madowo, the actress and filmmaker spoke openly about the private battles she faces away from the cameras.
Akindele did not hide the intensity of those low points.
“I cried, I locked myself in the room, cry, breakdown, hit the bed, but I just pick myself and come back to life,” she said.
The admission stands in sharp contrast to the joyful image she projects through her blockbuster films and public appearances, reminding audiences that success does not erase personal pain.
She also addressed the constant public scrutiny that follows her personal life, particularly the online conversations around her relationships, breakups and marriages.
“Oh yes, lots of times. It is online they see the breakups and the marriages. Sometimes I tell myself, ‘We’ve made a mistake again,’” Akindele explained.
She recalled the internal dialogue that often follows those moments of doubt.
“People are going to judge you.’ And I’m like, do you care about that? Why don’t I just brace up, face it, face the challenges, move on in life, make yourself happy, do what is right?”
Mental health has become a deliberate priority for the filmmaker over the years.
“You have to consider your mental health first, and that’s what I’ve done over the years, and it has helped me,” she noted.
After long periods of pouring everything into work, Akindele said she is now reclaiming time for herself.
“I’m kind of trying to catch my groove back. I am trying to get back. Now I’m more intentional about myself, making my hair, looking good.”
The interview arrives at a time when Akindele continues to dominate Nollywood box offices while balancing the demands of fame and private life. Earlier chapters of her journey have included publicised marital challenges and other personal losses, yet she has consistently chosen to keep moving forward.
Fans and industry watchers have responded with appreciation for the honesty, seeing the conversation as both vulnerable and inspiring.