Nollywood sensation Lolade Okusanya recently opened up about the process of seeking her family's support and approval before embarking on her daring role in the highly acclaimed movie, Ijakumo (The Born Again Stripper). During a guest appearance on TVC's Your View, the talented actress revealed that she made a deliberate effort to ensure her loved ones were prepared for the provocative nature of her character.
Lolade gained widespread recognition for her remarkable portrayal of Sharon, an undercover stripper, in the gripping suspense thriller produced by Toyin Abraham. Shedding light on her experience, she shared that she fully immersed herself in the role, momentarily setting aside her own identity during the filming process.
However, before delving into the challenging role, Lolade took proactive steps to inform and engage the significant individuals in her life. She ensured that her family members were aware of the nature of her character, allowing them to provide support and protection throughout the entire journey.
Recalling the events, she explained,
"I was not myself. I was the character. I was in that phase. I was not thinking about myself. So, before playing this role, I had already informed the most important people in my life, which are my family members. I knew they would support and protect me. While I was sending stripper videos to Aunty Toyin Abraham, I was also sharing them with my mum, my sister, my brother, and other important people in my life. I said, 'These are the kind of things you will see on Netflix, is it fine?' My mum responded, 'Hmm.'
"But they had prepared their minds. They had also prepared their extended families' minds. The people who mattered the most to me were ready. Social media can do its thing, but the people who mattered most to me were holding my hand."
Lolade's thoughtful approach in involving her family in her decision-making process showcases her strong bond with them and their unwavering support for her artistic endeavors. With their backing, she was able to fully commit to her role and deliver a captivating performance that garnered praise from both critics and audiences alike.
