Filmmakers now force actors to become content creators – Jemima Osunde

Nigerian actress, model, and presenter, Jemima Osunde, has accused filmmakers of pressuring actors to become social media content creators to land movie roles.

Speaking on the ‘Running Lines’ podcast, the film star expressed frustration with the industry’s shift towards requiring actors to have a strong online presence.

According to Osunde, the primary focus of acting should be on talent and performance rather than forcing actors to create content on social media platforms.

The 28-year-old model cited Hollywood star Keanu Reeves as an example of an actor who has thrived in the industry despite having a minimal social media presence.

“Now they are forcing actors to be social media content creators. It is now like, ‘You see that dance? You must dance on the internet.’ Why?” she asked.

“It is like they are forcing everyone; so if you are not an actor with a social media presence, you are not going to be cast because you need to sell the film.

“That should not be my job! Like, how many times do you see Keanu Reeves when he is not on your screen as an actor?”

Osunde is a Nigerian actress, model, and presenter who gained exposure after playing Leila in the television series ‘Shuga’.

She was nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role at the 15th Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) for her performance in ‘The Delivery Boy’ (2018).