Deyemi Okanlawon Explains Why He Left Nollywood in 2019

Nollywood actor Deyemi Okanlawon says he stepped away from acting in 2019 over poor pay and lack of fulfilment before returning to 9–5 work

Nollywood actor Deyemi Okanlawon, speaking in Nigeria on 1 July 2026 during an appearance on the CreativiTea podcast, has revealed that he temporarily stepped away from acting in 2019, citing dissatisfaction with pay and working conditions in the industry.

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The 45-year-old actor, known for his roles across film and television, disclosed that his decision to pause his acting career came after a period of frustration with what he described as inadequate compensation and lack of professional fulfilment.

Deyemi Okanlawon said the decision followed a personal reassessment of his career path after leaving a traditional 9–5 job to pursue acting full-time, only to feel that the reality of the industry did not match his expectations.

“I quit acting in 2019. I quit because the pay was nonsense, the work was nonsense,” he said during the interview.

He added that his motivation for entering acting had been driven by passion, but that experience eventually clashed with his expectations of quality and professional satisfaction.

“I didn’t leave 9–5 work to come and do mediocre work. It was difficult to wake up in the morning and go to work, and what is the point of being passionate about something and then not being fulfilled by it,” he said.

According to Deyemi Okanlawon, the situation ultimately led him to return to conventional employment for a period, as he sought stability and a renewed sense of purpose.

His comments have added to ongoing conversations within Nigeria’s entertainment industry about pay structures, working conditions and the sustainability of creative careers.

The actor has since re-established himself in Nollywood, building a reputation for versatility and strong screen presence across major productions.

Industry observers note that his disclosure reflects wider concerns among creatives about compensation and career stability, even as Nollywood continues to expand its global footprint.

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Deyemi Okanlawon’s remarks are expected to spark further discussion on how the industry can better balance artistic passion with fair remuneration and professional development.