Nigeria’s entertainment industry is home to talented musicians who have explored opportunities beyond the recording studio. While many are known for their hit songs and live performances, some have also appeared in Nollywood films and television productions.
From playing major roles in movies to making appearances in popular television series, these singers have shown that their talents extend beyond music.
Here are seven Nigerian singers who have ventured into acting:
1. Falz
Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz, is a Nigerian rapper, singer and actor. He gained attention for his role as Segun in the television comedy series Jenifa’s Diary, starring Funke Akindele.
He has also appeared in several films, including Chief Daddy, Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons and New Money. His performance in New Money earned him the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award for Best Supporting Actor in 2018.
2. Banky W
Olubankole Wellington, known professionally as Banky W, built his career as a singer and songwriter before taking on acting roles.
He has featured in several Nollywood productions, including The Wedding Party, Up North and Sugar Rush. His performances have made him a familiar face to audiences beyond his music career.
3. Tiwa Savage
Tiwa Savage is one of Nigeria’s most popular female singers, known for her contributions to Afrobeats. Beyond music, she has explored acting through television and film.
She appeared in the MTV television series Shuga and Funke Akindele’s comedy series Jenifa’s Diary. In 2024, she made her feature-film debut in Water and Garri, in which she played Aisha, a woman who returns to her hometown after years away.
4. Reminisce
Remilekun Khalid Safaru, popularly known as Reminisce, is a rapper who has also made a mark in Nollywood.
He gained attention for his role as Makanaki in Kemi Adetiba’s crime thriller King of Boys. His portrayal of the character introduced him to a wider audience and demonstrated his ability to take on roles outside the music industry. He also returned for the sequel, King of Boys: The Return of the King.
5. Omawumi
Omawumi Megbele is a Nigerian singer who has also built a presence in the film industry. She made her acting debut in the 2010 musical film Inale.
She later appeared in productions such as House of Gold and Oloture. Omawumi has also explored film production, working with fellow singer Waje on the 2019 movie She Is. Her career reflects her interest in different aspects of entertainment.
6. Yemi Alade
Yemi Alade is known for songs such as Johnny and her contributions to African pop music. She has also ventured into acting, appearing in Funke Akindele’s 2020 film Omo Ghetto: The Saga.
In the movie, she played Mogambe, a gang leader. Her appearance gave fans an opportunity to see another side of the singer beyond her music performances.
7. Simi
Simisola Kosoko, popularly known as Simi, is a singer and songwriter who has also tried acting. She appeared in Kunle Afolayan’s 2019 film Mokalik (Mechanic).
In the movie, she played a young woman named Simi who aspires to become a singer. Her appearance marked one of her ventures into filmmaking alongside her established music career.
Conclusion
These seven Nigerian singers have explored acting while maintaining their identities as musicians. Their experiences show how artists can expand their creative interests and reach audiences through different forms of entertainment.
Although music remains central to their careers, their appearances in films and television productions have allowed them to explore new roles and connect with fans in different ways.