In a recent interview on Oyinmomo TV, veteran Nollywood actress Jumoke George opened up about her 14-year absence from the Nigerian film industry, revealing the challenges she faced due to her dark complexion and refusal to compromise her values.
George shared that her dark skin often led to rejection from casting directors, with some even suggesting that she needed additional lighting to appear lighter on camera. However, she remained firm in her commitment to authenticity. “You can’t push me to do something I do not want to do. I will glow with this skin till old age… black does not crack,” she asserted.
Beyond issues with appearance, George disclosed that her biggest challenge was refusing advances from certain executives who expected sexual favors in exchange for roles. “I started having issues when about 20 to 30 executives wanted sex in exchange for roles. I said, as long as God exists, I would not find myself in such a space,” she recounted.
Her stance led to a long period without work, and she only understood the reason after confronting a director she encountered at Feminine Cafe at LTV 8. “He told me their group of directors had decided not to give me roles because I refused to sleep with them,” she explained. Despite the emotional toll, George relied on prayer and her faith to endure the challenges, eventually returning to the industry with her principles intact.
