Veteran Nollywood actor, Yemi Solade, has sparked discussion after questioning whether earnings from acting alone could enable female actors to afford luxury vehicles such as Mercedes-Benz G-Wagons.
Solade made the remarks during his appearance on Isbae U’s Curiosity Made Me Ask, where he spoke about the financial realities of the Nigerian movie industry.
The veteran actor suggested that the income earned from acting was not enough to explain the expensive lifestyles displayed by some actresses, particularly those seen driving high-end vehicles.
According to Solade, actresses who own such cars may have other businesses, investments or alternative sources of income outside acting.
He also noted that some luxury vehicles could be gifts rather than purchases made from acting proceeds.
“It is possible from producing, but not from acting, except they have side hustle,” he said.
Solade further questioned the amount an actor could realistically earn from movie roles, arguing that acting fees alone could hardly support the purchase of some of the most expensive vehicles seen among celebrities.
He added, “How much are they going to pay you for acting, 50 million? Then again, some are gifts, I want to believe so. Yes now, dem fit gift person G-Wagon.”
The actor said his position was based on his experience in the industry, stressing that he was aware of the earnings available to professional actors.
Solade maintained that while Nollywood had attracted people for different reasons, he preferred to focus on practitioners who had built their careers around the profession.
He said some people in the industry had other means of generating income, while those who depended solely on acting could not easily afford extravagant lifestyles.
The actor’s comments have generated conversation about the earnings of Nigerian actors and the various income streams available to celebrities.
While acting remains a major source of income for many Nollywood practitioners, several entertainers also venture into film production, endorsement deals, businesses, brand partnerships and other investments.
Solade’s remarks have consequently renewed debate over the difference between the financial rewards of acting and the luxury lifestyles often associated with the entertainment industry.
