Aliu Gafar reflects on marriage challenges, his acting career, and the growth of Yoruba Nollywood in an engaging interview
[dropcap]N[/dropcap]ollywood actor Aliu Gafar has shared profound insights on relationships, his acting journey, and the growth of Yoruba Nollywood.
Also read: Aliu Gafar delivers stellar performance as Esusu in Femi Adebayo’s Seven Doors
Speaking during an interactive session on TVC News’ talk show Your View Pidgin, the actor addressed societal expectations and personal experiences.
Gafar, renowned for his role as Esusu in Seven Doors, highlighted the unpredictability of relationships, stating, “You may be hoping to marry Taiwo and eventually marry Chinedu, especially when you don’t have plans to marry a second wife.”
He explained that unforeseen circumstances, such as unplanned pregnancies or unique impressions left by potential partners, could influence decisions.
He also opposed the notion that women over 35 should resort to single parenthood if unmarried, arguing that it undermines the essence of marriage.
“Men are not scarce, but husband material are,” he said, urging women to maintain hope rather than succumb to societal pressures.
Reflecting on his acting career, Gafar revealed that his journey began in primary school when a teacher, Mr Esuola, cast him as a king in a school play.
Despite being a Muslim, he participated in church dramas, joined theatre groups like Jide Alaba Are and Ogoluke Theatre in 2000, and trained at Watkins School of Performing Arts in the UK. By February 2025, he will celebrate 25 years in the film industry.
Gafar recounted how he landed the role of Esusu in Seven Doors.
Initially disappointed when the role was changed, he expressed gratitude to Femi Adebayo, the executive producer, for entrusting him with the lead role.
The actor described an emotional scene where Esusu was chased out of the village as one of his most challenging performances.
On the growth of Yoruba Nollywood, Gafar praised stakeholders who took risks to invest in the genre, making it widely accepted.
Also read: Seven Doors: Olatunji Afolayan deserves a florist
He acknowledged their efforts in ensuring Yoruba movies gained prominence both locally and internationally.
Ojelabi, the publisher of Freelanews, is an award winning and professionally trained mass communicator, who writes ruthlessly about pop culture, religion, politics and entertainment.
