Renowned Yoruba actress Bukky Fagbuyi has disclosed a distressing experience of sexual harassment in the Nollywood film industry in Nigeria. The darker side of the entertainment industry was exposed when Fagbuyi said in an eye-opening interview that an actor had demanded she have sex with him in order to get movie roles.
In the interview shared on the official YouTube channel of Biola Adebayo Entertainment, Fagbuyi spoke candidly about the challenges faced by actresses in Nollywood, particularly the exploitation of newcomers. She explained that some male actors take advantage of fresh talent by coercing them into unwanted situations. “When some actors see a new and beautiful actress in the movie industry, they always try to frustrate her,” Fagbuyi stated, emphasising the pervasive issue of sexual harassment that often goes unnoticed or unreported in the industry.
Fagbuyi’s own experience with harassment came when an actor insisted that she must have an affair with him to advance her career. “I had a terrible experience with sexual harassment when a particular actor told me that I will not progress further in the movie industry if I don’t have an affair with him,” she shared. Her refusal led to retaliatory actions from some in the industry, as she was told by other actors that they would not work with her because she rejected the actor’s advances.
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The actress went on to describe how the situation escalated further when one of the actor’s friends, who happened to be a journalist, attempted to persuade her into submission. “An actor said I must have sex with him if I want to continue getting movie roles from other actors. One of the actor’s friends, who is a journalist, called me on the phone and tried to persuade me to have an affair with the actor, but I refused, and I told him that I will never do it,” Fagbuyi revealed.
Fagbuyi’s brave decision to speak out brings much-needed attention to the issue of sexual harassment in Nollywood, where such cases have long been a taboo subject. Her refusal to succumb to the pressure highlights the resilience and integrity of actresses who face harassment in their careers, but often lack the support or platform to share their stories. Fagbuyi’s account serves as a call for greater awareness and a movement toward systemic change within the film industry.
The Nigerian film industry, also known as Nollywood, is one of the largest in the world, with an estimated annual output of over 2,500 films. However, it remains a male-dominated industry, and stories like Fagbuyi’s are not unique. In recent years, discussions around sexual harassment in Nollywood have gained traction, with other actresses also coming forward to share their experiences. Fagbuyi’s courage in addressing this issue is a significant step in the fight to make Nollywood a safer, more equitable space for women.
The #MeToo movement has reverberated across the globe, and now Fagbuyi’s revelation adds weight to calls for a safer working environment in Nollywood, where women are not forced to choose between their careers and their dignity. Her story underscores the need for comprehensive policies and stronger legal protections against harassment in the entertainment industry.
Fagbuyi’s message resonates not only in Nollywood but across various sectors where women face similar exploitation and discrimination. By sharing her painful experience, she is giving a voice to countless others who may fear speaking out. The industry, the public, and policymakers must now pay attention to the issue of sexual harassment and take steps to address it.
Fagbuyi’s message is clear: while the lure of fame and career opportunities may be tempting, no one should have to sacrifice their morals or self-respect to achieve success. Her resolute stance against sexual harassment is a beacon of hope for women in Nollywood and beyond, calling for the industry to do better and ensuring that the next generation of actresses will be able to thrive without fear of exploitation.
Watch the full interview here
