CurrentReport Blog Renowned Nollywood actor Uzor Arukwe shed light on a significant shift in the industry’s casting landscape. Arukwe revealed that there was a time when social media following held considerable sway over casting decisions, sometimes overshadowing talent itself.
The actor, known for his roles in productions like ‘A Tribe Called Judah,’ reminisced about his early days in the industry, acknowledging the challenges he faced as a budding thespian.
He candidly admitted that the emphasis on social media metrics posed a major obstacle to aspiring actors, himself included.
Reflecting on the prevailing trend, Arukwe highlighted the dilemma faced by many actors, where their online presence seemed to carry more weight than their acting prowess.
He expressed concern over a system where casting decisions were influenced primarily by Instagram and Twitter followers, rather than an individual’s skill and dedication to the craft.
Despite the hurdles posed by this phenomenon, Arukwe remained steadfast in his commitment to his craft, emphasizing the importance of talent and proficiency in acting. He underscored the fundamental question that should guide casting decisions: “But can he act?”
While acknowledging the success of some actors who possess both talent and a substantial online following, Arukwe’s remarks shed light on the broader conversation surrounding the evolving dynamics of casting in the Nigerian film industry.
