Nigerian actress Omotunde Sogunle, widely recognized by her stage name Motunde, known for her captivating roles as the on-screen daughter in Mr Macaroni’s comedy skits, recently opened up about a shocking and false pregnancy rumour that once left her deeply distressed and emotionally drained.
In an in-depth interview with a local media outlet, Motunde recounted the painful experience of being accused of allegedly getting pregnant for her on-screen father, Mr Macaroni, and purportedly terminating the pregnancy. She described the claims as not only absurd but also impossible, highlighting the hurt and confusion the rumour caused her at the time. The actress emphasized that the false narrative seemed to come out of nowhere, leaving her shocked and questioning how such a baseless story could gain traction in the public sphere.
“They said I got pregnant for my on-screen daddy, Mr Macaroni and that I aborted the pregnancy. I was shocked. When did that happen? It is not possible. Must there be such a thing between people in a working relationship? I was really devastated then,” Motunde stated, reflecting on the mental and emotional strain the false allegation caused her at the time. She added that, for a period, she struggled to process the negative attention and public scrutiny resulting from the rumour, which threatened to affect her career and personal life simultaneously.
Despite the intensity of the incident, Motunde revealed that she has since moved on and now views the episode with a sense of humor alongside Mr Macaroni. She explained that one of the key lessons she learned from her mentor and co-actor is the significance of maintaining silence in certain situations, especially when facing false claims or baseless gossip, as responding to such allegations often only exacerbates the problem rather than resolving it. This lesson, she noted, has contributed significantly to her emotional resilience and overall approach to handling controversies within the entertainment industry.
Furthermore, Motunde shared that the experience, while difficult, has strengthened her resolve and made her more cautious in navigating public life and professional relationships. She continues to expand her fan base and strengthen her presence in the entertainment scene through her consistent performances in Mr Macaroni’s skits, demonstrating her professionalism, patience, and ability to thrive despite challenges and unwarranted scrutiny. The actress’s journey illustrates both the pitfalls of fame and the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and learning to manage public perception in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Motunde concluded by encouraging upcoming actors to stay focused on their craft, avoid engaging with false narratives unnecessarily, and prioritize mental well-being while building their careers in a highly competitive and often judgmental industry. She emphasized that experiences like hers, while tough, can serve as valuable lessons in resilience, discretion, and personal growth, shaping not only careers but also character in the long run.