For as long as we can remember, Nollywood has been shaped by strong women who made us laugh, cry, and sometimes even yell at our screens. Icons like Genevieve Nnaji, with her effortlessly chic on-screen presence; Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, who was the envy of all and sundry for her mastery of acting and her unrivaled charisma; Funke Akindele, who has captured hearts from day one, and many others, have set the stage for powerful storytelling. These leading women have entertained us and paved the way for the next generation of female actors.
In recent years, Nollywood has made significant progress in how women are portrayed on screen. While strong female characters have always been a part of Nollywood’s storytelling, there is now a greater emphasis on depth and complexity. Women in Nollywood are now redefining what it means to take charge, portraying CEOs, warriors, royalties, and everything in between. They are complex, flawed, ambitious, and unapologetically in charge of their destinies.
Showmax Originals has given us a front-row seat to this shift, introducing female characters that feel real—women who fight, love, lead, and sometimes make messy, human mistakes. And as we celebrate International Women’s Month, there’s no better time to give them their flowers.
Scarlet Gomez – Wura Amoo-Adeleke in Wura:
Scarlet Gomez’s portrayal of Wura Amoo-Adeleke in the Showmax original series Wura has captivated audiences, presenting a formidable and multifaceted character. Wura, as the ambitious CEO of Frontline Gold Mine, is depicted as a ruthless leader in her professional life yet maintains the facade of a perfect wife and mother at home. Wura’s character is a complex blend of ambition and moral ambiguity, navigating personal and professional challenges in a male-dominated field. Her journey offers a nuanced portrayal of power and its consequences.
Gomez’s exceptional performance in Showmax original TV series, Wura, earned her a nomination for Best Actress in a Drama, Movie, or TV Series at the 2023 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), a testament to her talent and the impact of her role. Gomez’s dedication to her craft and ability to humanise a complex character has solidified her status as a leading actress in Nollywood.
Annetta Adebusuyi – Princess Aderiyife in Kabiyesi:
Annetta Adebusuyi, a multifaceted talent, brings depth and authenticity to the role of Princess Aderiyife in the Showmax original series Kabiyesi. The series draws inspiration from the true story of Orompoto, the only female Alaafin of Oyo in the 16th century, weaving themes of tradition, ambition, and political intrigue.
In Kabiyesi, Adebusuyi portrays Princess Aderiyife, the only daughter of King Adegoke of Oyo-Ile, who is betrothed to Prince Obabamiji of Igboho. The narrative takes a dramatic turn following a betrayal and a series of tragic events, compelling Princess Aderiyife to confront deep-seated traditions and engage in a battle for power to secure her kingdom’s future. Adebusuyi’s portrayal of Princess Aderiyife has been lauded for its grace and determination, embodying the complexities of leadership and resilience. Her diverse background enriches her performance, offering a nuanced depiction of a woman navigating the intricacies of power and societal expectations.
Oluchi Amajuoyi – Adanna in Cheta M:
Oluchi Amajuoyi portrays Adanna in Cheta M, an epic drama that delves into a profound love story amidst inter-kingdom tensions. Adanna’s journey is fraught with challenges, from political conflicts to spiritual interventions, all while she strives to protect her love and navigate a world filled with secrets and blackmail. Her resilience and courage are central to the series’ exploration of love and adversity. Amajuoyi’s portrayal of Adanna has been lauded for capturing the character’s innocence and naivety, traits expected of a maiden of her age and time. Her performance brings depth to Adanna’s resilience and courage, central to the series’ exploration of love and adversity.
Funmbi Oguntoye – Amaka in Under the Influence:
Funmbi Oguntoye takes on the role of Amaka in Under the Influence, a drama series that examines the impact of social media fame on personal relationships. Amaka is a vibrant character who becomes entwined in the complexities of online notoriety, highlighting the challenges of authenticity and connection in the digital age. Her story reflects the modern struggles of maintaining one’s identity amidst external pressures.
Funmbi Oguntoye’s performance as Amaka not only showcases her versatility as an actress but also contributes to the ongoing conversation about the impact of social media on personal identity and relationships. Her portrayal serves as a mirror to society’s fascination with online validation and the lengths individuals may go to attain and maintain it.
Enado Odigie – Dolapo in Flawsome:
Flawsome is a Nigerian drama series that intricately weaves the lives of four dynamic and ambitious women—Ifeyinwa, Ramat, Ivie, and Dolapo—navigating their personal and professional journeys. The show delves into themes of friendship, societal expectations, and the pursuit of success, offering a nuanced portrayal of modern African women confronting and embracing their imperfections.
Among these compelling characters, Dolapo, portrayed by Enado Odigie, stands out as a testament to resilience and complexity. As a successful Public Relations professional, Dolapo’s journey is marked by her fierce independence, love for her friends, and vulnerability. She grapples with a career crisis, challenging her to reassess her ambitions and personal life. Odigie’s portrayal brings depth to Dolapo, capturing the delicate balance between strength and sensitivity. In her own words, Odigie reflects on the character’s multifaceted nature: “One of the many things that made me fall in love with this character ‘Dolapo’ is that, as fierce as she can be, she can also be vulnerable.”
Through Dolapo and her friends, Flawsome celebrates the strength, flaws, and complexities inherent in womanhood, offering a rich narrative that honours the multifaceted experiences of women today.
These characters exemplify the diverse experiences and strengths of African women, offering viewers relatable and inspiring narratives. Through their stories, Showmax Originals continues to celebrate and elevate female voices in African cinema.
