Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has recounted her journey to earning her first ₦1 million in 1999, thanks to her breakout role as ‘Bisi’ in the popular educational TV series ‘I Need to Know’. In a video shared on her social media account, Akindele reflected on her early acting career, which began in 1996 with minor roles and numerous rejections at auditions.
Akindele started her career playing small parts, known as “waka pass” roles, and faced several rejections before landing her big break. She recalled, “I made that around 1999. I started my career from like 1996, playing waka pass roles, 1997 going for auditions, getting a lot of nos.” Her perseverance eventually paid off when she was cast in ‘I Need to Know’, a television series that marked a significant turning point in her career.
The actress revealed that her first ₦1 million earnings came from her role in the TV series. When asked how she used the money, Akindele shared that she first informed her mother, who advised her to pay her tithe before spending any part of it. She stated, “What did I do with one million naira? First, I showed it to my mom. Of course, she knew about it, and then mommy advised that I have to pay my tithe first.” Akindele then used the remaining money to upgrade her wardrobe, including buying new shoes, bags, and other essentials.
Akindele’s story highlights the importance of perseverance and hard work in achieving success. Her journey from playing minor roles to earning a significant amount of money is a testament to her dedication to her craft. The actress’s experience serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors and filmmakers, demonstrating that success can be achieved with persistence and determination. With her breakout role in ‘I Need to Know’, Akindele’s career has continued to flourish, making her one of the most recognizable faces in Nollywood.
