Aliu Gafar’s portrayal of Esusu in Seven Doors captivates audiences, earning widespread praise for his chilling and unforgettable performance
[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Netflix hit Seven Doors, created by the legendary filmmaker Femi Adebayo, has captured the hearts of Nigerians with its gripping storyline and stellar performances.
Also read: Aliu Gafar delivers stellar performance as Esusu in Femi Adebayo’s Seven Doors
Central to its success is the character Esusu, a malevolent villain whose return wreaks havoc in the kingdom, masterfully portrayed by Aliu Gafar.
Esusu’s entrance, late in Episode 2, introduces an ominous presence that shifts the narrative and spares no one, not even the royal family.
Gafar’s commanding performance as Esusu—a character driven by wickedness beyond comprehension—has resonated deeply with audiences, solidifying his place as a rising star in Nollywood.
The story delves into Esusu’s sinister backstory, revealing a dark pact with Ọba Adejuwọn, an ancestor of Adedunjoye.
Desperation led Adejuwọn to Esusu for help in escaping death, but the deal came at an unthinkable cost, encapsulating the Yoruba saying, bi alọ ba lọ, abọ nbọ (what goes around comes around).
Upon Esusu’s return, his demands challenge the very fabric of the kingdom, adding depth and tension to the series.
Nigerians have taken to social media to celebrate Gafar’s performance.
Fans and critics alike have lauded his portrayal of Esusu as a masterpiece of acting, with many calling for more opportunities for the talented actor.
Akin Akinwale praised the unique casting, noting the absence of usual Nollywood stars like Odunlade Adekola, while celebrating the return of Sikiratu Sindodo and Yemi Shodimu.
Oluwafisayomi (@papajr31) simply stated, “The guy who acted Esusu >>>>.”
Prime (@itsbiggiesam) described Gafar’s performance as transcendent, calling it “way beyond expectation” and urging others to experience Seven Doors, which he labelled a “masterpiece.”
Oyindamola (@dammiedammie35) highlighted Gafar’s perfect delivery, saying, “His voice, charisma, and body language were so perfect.”
Lola Okunrin (@lollypeezle) gave glowing feedback, calling the story “fascinating,” the effects “incredible,” and urging Femi Adebayo to reward Gafar for his standout role.
Audiences have also praised the movie’s production quality, visual effects, and storytelling, commending Adebayo and the cast for raising the bar in Nollywood.
As Seven Doors continues to trend on Netflix Naija, the character Esusu and Aliu Gafar’s portrayal have become synonymous with excellence, marking a new chapter in Nollywood’s evolving narrative.
Also read: Aliu Gafar impresses in Adunni Ade’s latest film ‘Eefin’
For more reactions, search “Esusu” on X (formerly Twitter) to join the conversation.
ESUSU is here
Thank you all for the love and support
I appreciate 🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/JJEz7t3Ubo— Aliu Gafar (@aliu_gafar) December 13, 2024
Ojelabi, the publisher of Freelanews, is an award winning and professionally trained mass communicator and a recipient of the D9112 Superstar Icon Award, who writes ruthlessly about pop culture, religion, politics and entertainment.
