The allure of social media fame, sibling rivalry, and the quest for authenticity collide in Under the Influence, the new series by acclaimed director and showrunner Wande Thomas, now streaming on Showmax.
With fresh episodes released every Friday, the show dives into the chaotic, often deceptive world of pseudo-fame, offering a blend of comedy, drama, and heartfelt storytelling that resonates with today’s digital generation.
The story kicks off with Dami (Iremide Adeoye), a recent graduate brimming with enthusiasm, who moves to Lagos to stay with his older brother Ayo (Bobby Ekpe). The clash between Dami’s energetic ambition and Ayo’s pragmatic outlook ignites a series of events that thrust Dami into the unpredictable world of social media stardom.
“Under the Influence takes an honest look into the phenomenon of pseudo-fame,” says Wande Thomas in a recent interview. “On social media, not everything is as it seems. Fame feels like the ultimate goal, but the real challenge lies in monetizing it, staying grounded, and not losing yourself in a space where so much is fake.”
The series isn’t just about fame; it’s about the humanity behind the hashtags. Thomas explains that the show balances humour and drama to explore deeper themes like identity and validation.
“We all crave attention and validation, but the real challenge comes with understanding the impact of that attention,” he notes. Dami’s journey into the influencer world is both chaotic and revealing, mirroring the highs and lows faced by many young people today.
Through its narrative, Under the Influence sends a powerful message about staying true to oneself in the face of social media pressures.
As Thomas points out, “The show emphasizes the importance of not living your life based on the expectations of people you don’t truly know. Dami learns this the hard way—getting dragged, trying to impress strangers, and losing sight of himself.”
At the heart of the series is the complex relationship between siblings Dami and Ayo. Their generational divide—Dami representing Gen Z and Ayo, the millennial—is both a source of humor and tension.
“Sibling relationships are so universal,” Thomas explains. “Even if you don’t have siblings, the dynamics of rivalry and generational debates are relatable. Exploring that dynamic through the lens of family felt natural.”
Under the Influence showcases Nollywood’s emerging talent
The series also boasts impressive performances from a fresh crop of Nollywood stars. Thomas is especially proud of the acting, which he describes as “some of the best from young, up-and-coming actors in Nollywood.” He adds, “We worked hard to make it feel real. The storytelling is organic, and the twists and turns will keep viewers hooked.”
Adding authenticity to the series, lifestyle influencer Nicole Chikwe joined the writers’ room, contributing her real-life experiences to craft a narrative that feels genuine.
With the global spotlight on African filmmakers, Thomas believes in leveraging the momentum to tell authentic stories with universal appeal. “The world is more connected than ever. Stories that resonate with us as Africans can also connect with audiences in Asia, America, or anywhere else,” he says. “If the story is real and well-told, it will connect with audiences everywhere.”
Under the Influence is more than a series—it’s a mirror reflecting the complexities of modern life, from the rush of going viral to the grounding reality of family ties. With its sharp storytelling, dynamic characters, and a mix of humor and heart, it’s a must-watch for anyone navigating the intersection of fame and identity in the digital age.
Stream the first episode of Under the Influence now on Showmax, with new episodes every Friday.
