Behind The Stars: 15 Nollywood Actors and Their Parents

They say a child’s success is a parent’s greatest pride, and this couldn’t be more true in Nollywood. Many of the talented actors we admire today were shaped by their parents’ love, discipline, and sacrifices—some famous, some unknown, but all integral to their journey.

From legendary names like Pete Edochie, whose son Yul followed in his footsteps, to actors who built their own legacies from scratch, every star has a story rooted in family.

In this article, we take a closer look at the parents behind some of Nollywood’s biggest male actors—their backgrounds, their influence, and the role they played in shaping the faces we see on our screens today.

1. Yul Edochie 

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Yul Edochie, born on January 7, 1982, is a Nigerian actor, director, and politician, known for his deep baritone voice and commanding screen presence. He made his Nollywood debut in 2005 and has since starred in numerous films, including Wind of Glory, Royal Challenge, and The Billionaires.

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His surname ‘Edochie’ might sound very familiar because Yul comes from a legendary acting lineage as the son of the iconic Nollywood veteran Pete Edochie, whose powerful performances shaped the Nigerian film industry. His mother, Josephine Edochie, is a lawyer and broadcaster, known for her reserved yet supportive role in their family’s success.

Growing up in a household where storytelling and discipline were highly valued, Yul credits his father’s guidance and his mother’s wisdom for his career and personal values. Despite forging his own path in Nollywood, he remains deeply influenced by his father’s legacy, often drawing comparisons to the elder Edochie’s authoritative roles and strong moral characters.

2. Miracle Chidi Dike

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Born on June 29, 2001, in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria, Miracle Chidi Dike is a rising Nollywood actor and model. He hails from a devout Christian family; his father, Pastor Samson A. Dike, serves as the Senior Pastor of Maker’s House Ministry in Calabar, while his mother, Mrs. Florence Dike, is both a pastor and a teacher. Chidi’s mother originates from Obubra Local Government Area in Cross River State, and his father is from Umuahia in Abia State. 

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Growing up, Chidi was the eldest of five siblings and often participated in church dramas, which ignited his passion for acting. He pursued a degree in Theater Arts at the University of Calabar, laying a solid foundation for his career in the Nigerian film industry. Chidi Dike has since become a prominent figure in Nollywood, known for his compelling performances and dedication to his craft.

3. Ken Erics

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Nigeria, Ekenedilichukwu Ugochukwu Eric Nwenweh, professionally known as Ken Erics, is a renowned Nigerian actor, writer, producer, and musician. He hails from Enugwu-Ukwu in Anambra State and is the sixth of seven children born to Eric Chukwuemeka Nwenweh and Grace Ifeyinwa Nwenweh. Ken Erics developed a passion for the arts early in life, leading him to earn a degree in Theatre Arts from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, and a master’s degree in Theatre and Film Studies. 

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He gained prominence for his role as Ugo in the movie “The Illiterate” and has since featured in numerous films, earning accolades such as the Best Actor award at the 2014 City People Entertainment Awards. In August 2022, he lost his father, Eric Chukwuemeka Nwenweh, who was laid to rest in a ceremony honoring his life and legacy. 

4. Zubby Micheal

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Born on February 1, 1985, Zubby Michael Egwu is a popular Nollywood actor and movie producer known for his charismatic screen presence and action-packed roles.

Hailing from Ozubulu in Okwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State, Zubby was born into the family of Mr. and Mrs. Egwu. His father, a businessman, and his mother, a teacher, raised him alongside his five siblings. As the second child in the family, Zubby grew up with a strong sense of ambition and determination, which has fueled his rise in Nollywood.

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Over the years, he has become a household name, earning recognition for his roles in movies like Princess Rihanna, Three Windows, and Royal Storm.

5. Alexx Ekubo

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Born in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Alexx Ekubo is a celebrated Nollywood actor, model, and media personality known for his charm and versatility on screen.

He was born into the family of Jane Ekubo, a fashion designer and businesswoman, and Mazi Alex Ekubo, a petroleum marketer. Growing up in a supportive home, Alexx developed an early passion for the arts, which later led him to Nollywood.

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Since his breakout role in Ladies Men, he has starred in several hit movies, including Bling Lagosians, Zero Hour, and Your Excellency, earning numerous accolades along the way. His talent and charisma have solidified his place as one of Nollywood’s leading men.

6. Bolanle Ninalowo

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Bolanle Ninalowo, fondly called “Nino B,” is a Nollywood actor and producer known for his striking screen presence and compelling performances.

He was born on May 7, 1980, into the family of Alhaji Jamu Ninalowo and Alhaja Rualate Ninalowo, both devout Muslims from Ikorodu, Lagos State. His parents instilled in him a strong work ethic and discipline, which have been evident throughout his career.

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Before venturing fully into acting, Bolanle worked in banking and later ran his own business. His breakthrough in Nollywood came with roles in movies like Picture Perfect, Husbands of Lagos, and The Bling Lagosians, where he gained recognition for his talent and charisma. Today, he is one of the most sought-after actors in Nollywood.

7. Linc Edochie

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Linc Edochie, born on May 10, 1977, in Enugu, Nigeria, is a Nigerian actor, director, and entrepreneur. He is the son of Chief Pete Edochie, a revered Nollywood icon, and Josephine Edochie, a former broadcaster who dedicated herself to homemaking. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in the arts, with his father being a celebrated actor, Linc was naturally inclined towards the world of cinema. His mother, Josephine, provided a nurturing environment that balanced the family’s public life with private warmth. This blend of public acclaim and private support played a significant role in shaping Linc’s career in the Nigerian film industry.

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In a recent family gathering, Linc joined his siblings—Leo, Uche, Gene, and Yul Edochie—to celebrate their strong familial bond, a testament to the close-knit nature of the Edochie family.

Linc’s journey in Nollywood has been marked by a commitment to storytelling and a dedication to his craft, attributes he attributes to the foundational values instilled by his parents.

8. Femi Adebayo

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Femi Adebayo, born on December 31, 1978, in Lagos, Nigeria Is a distinguished actor, lawyer, producer, and director, celebrated for his significant contributions to Nollywood. He is the son of the veteran actor Adebayo Salami, widely known as Oga Bello, and Risikat Ejide Akinbiyi, a Phd holder in marketing.

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Growing up in a family deeply rooted in the performing arts, Femi was inspired by his father’s illustrious career. He pursued a bachelor’s degree in law from the University of Ilorin and further obtained a master’s degree in law from the University of Ibadan. 

Femi’s parents, especially his father, played a pivotal role in nurturing his passion for acting. He began his acting career in 1985, featuring in his father’s film “Ogun Ajaye.” Over the years, he has appeared in over 500 films, including notable titles like “Sonto Alapata,” “Wura Ati Fadaka,” and “Ma Wobadan.” 

In interviews, Femi has often credited his father as a significant influence and mentor in his career, stating that his father doubles as his boss in the industry. 

Femi Adebayo’s journey reflects the profound impact of his parents’ guidance and the rich cultural heritage they instilled in him, shaping him into one of Nollywood’s most respected figures.

9. Muyiwa Ademola

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Born on January 26, 1971, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, Muyiwa Ademola, affectionately known as “Mr. Authentic,” is a celebrated Nollywood actor, film producer, and director. He is the son of Pa Isaiah Ademola and Mrs. Rebecca Ademola. 

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Growing up in a modest household, Muyiwa faced financial challenges; his family couldn’t afford a television until he was in secondary school. Despite these hardships, his parents instilled in him the values of hard work and perseverance. 

Muyiwa attended St. David’s High School in Molete, Ibadan, and later earned a Bachelor of Education degree in Adult Education from the University of Ibadan. His father’s passing in 2012 was a significant moment in his life. Muyiwa’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a renowned figure in the Nigerian film industry is a testament to the foundational support and values imparted by his parents.

10. Odunlade Johnathan Adekola

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Odunlade Adekola is one of Nollywood’s most celebrated actors. Born on December 31, 1976, in Abeokuta, Ogun State. He hails from Otun Ekiti in Ekiti State.

Odunlade was born into a devout Christian home. His parents, Pastor Nathaniel and Deaconess Adekola, were deeply involved in the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC). His father, who started as a choirmaster, later became a pastor, shaping Odunlade’s early years with strong values and discipline.

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Growing up in Abeokuta, he attended St. John’s Primary School and St. Peter’s College before earning a diploma from Moshood Abiola Polytechnic. In 2018, he furthered his education with a degree in Business Administration from the University of Lagos.

Odunlade’s journey into acting began in church, where he honed his talent before stepping into Nollywood. Today, he is a household name, known for his larger-than-life performances and impact on the industry.

11. Olumide Oworu

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Born on December 11, 1994, Olumide Abiodun Oworu is a Nigerian actor, model, and rapper, renowned for his roles in television series such as “The Johnsons” and “MTV Shuga.” He began his acting career at the age of six with the television series “Everyday People” and has since become a prominent figure in Nollywood.

Olumide’s mother is Titilope Odubanjo Oworu. She has been a significant influence in his life and career. In interviews, Olumide has highlighted his mother’s unwavering support, noting that she has been instrumental in encouraging his aspirations from a young age. Her belief in his talents has been a cornerstone of his journey in the entertainment industry.

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Olumide continues to honor his mother’s influence by striving for excellence in his career, acknowledging that her guidance and encouragement have been pivotal to his success.

12. Yemi Blaq

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Yemi Blaq, born Folayemi Olatunji in 1978 in Ondo State, Nigeria, has always credited his parents for instilling in him the values that have shaped his career. His father, Olatunji Blaq, who died in February 2020, was a guiding force in his life, providing the foundation upon which Yemi built his pursuits. 

 

 

 

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While details about his mother remain private, Yemi’s upbringing in Lagos, where he completed his primary and tertiary education, reflects the supportive environment his parents provided. Their influence is evident in his dedication to his craft and the depth he brings to his roles.

The legacy of his parents’ guidance continues to resonate in Yemi’s work, as he honors their memory through his contributions to Nigerian cinema.

13. Deyemi Okanlawon

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Deyemi Okanlawon, born on April 19, 1981, in Lagos, is a Nigerian film, television, theatre, and voice actor. He is widely recognized as one of the most dynamic talents in the Nigerian film industry, earning the distinction of being the highest-grossing Nollywood actor of 2020 and 2021, according to the Film One Box Office report. 

He is the son of Adeyemi Okanlawon, an aircraft engineer, and Adeyinka Okanlawon, a baker and entrepreneur. 

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Reflecting on his upbringing, Deyemi has shared that his father’s departure during his formative years left him feeling “depressed and brokenhearted,” a period that profoundly impacted his personal growth. 

Despite these challenges, Deyemi’s mother, Adeyinka, remained a steadfast presence in his life. In January 2023, he celebrated her 69th birthday by inviting her to watch his performance in “Motherland the Musical” at Terra Kulture, a gesture that highlighted their close bond. 

The resilience and support of his mother have been instrumental in shaping Deyemi’s journey in the entertainment industry.

14. Ray Emodi 

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Ray Emodi, born on September 4, 1990, in Enugu State, Nigeria, is a multifaceted talent known for his work as an actor, singer, and model. He is the youngest of four children born to the late Dr. Okey Emodi and Senator Joy Emodi. 

His mother, Senator Joy Emodi, made history as the first Igbo woman elected to the Nigerian Senate, representing the Anambra North Constituency. Her trailblazing political career has been a source of inspiration for Ray, instilling in him values of determination and public service. 

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Ray’s father, Dr. Okey Emodi, was an educationist, economist, and administrator. He passed away in August 2019 at the age of 77. 

He obtained a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Nottingham Trent University in the UK and later earned a Master’s in Fine Arts in Acting from the New York Film Academy in Los Angeles, USA. 

The blend of his parents’ dedication to education and public service has profoundly influenced Ray’s artistic journey, shaping him into the versatile performer he is today.

15. Daniel Etim Effiong

Daniel Etim Effiong, a Nigerian actor and film director, was born in Jaji, Kaduna State, Nigeria. His father, former Lt. Col. Moses Effiong, served in the Nigerian Army and was among those sentenced to life imprisonment in 1986 following the alleged Vatsa coup during General Ibrahim Babangida’s regime. After spending years in incarceration, he was granted a presidential pardon in 2020. 

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Daniel’s mother was a teacher at Command Secondary School. Growing up in a military household, Daniel experienced life in various Nigerian cities, including Benin City, Lagos, and Abuja. He pursued a degree in chemical engineering from the Federal University of Technology, Minna, before venturing into the arts. 

The resilience and strength demonstrated by his parents have significantly influenced his journey in the entertainment industry.