- A Nigerian TikTok user, @dareal_bl, criticized Nollywood actors for soliciting gifts online.
- The controversy began during a live session with veteran actor Nonso Diobi.
- She expressed disappointment because Diobi was her childhood hero.
- The video prompted mixed reactions: some defended actors’ financial strategies, while others criticized them.
- Concerns raised include the gap between actors’ public image and financial struggles.
- Users highlighted systemic issues, including lack of support during serious illnesses (e.g., Ameachi needing a kidney transplant).
- Some viewers defended actors’ right to supplement their income, citing low Nollywood salaries.
A Nigerian woman has taken to TikTok to criticize Nollywood actors for turning to unconventional ways to earn income. The controversy arose when she joined a live session featuring Nollywood veteran Nonso Diobi, who was requesting gifts from his fans.
The woman, identified on TikTok as @dareal_bl, expressed disappointment, particularly because Diobi was her childhood hero. She claimed that witnessing him solicit gifts prompted her to declare, “Nollywood has failed us,” even though she had observed other actors doing similar activities.
The video sparked mixed reactions online. Some users defended actors’ use of platforms like TikTok to supplement their earnings, citing the financial struggles within the industry. Others agreed with her critique, highlighting the gap between public perception and the actual hardships faced by actors.
For instance, @Nikkyjoy criticized the disparity, noting how performers sometimes appear wealthy but still seek gifts from fans. @Agrostocks lamented that the industry fails to support actors during severe illnesses, referencing Nollywood star Ameachi seeking help for a kidney transplant. @nazzypretty echoed concerns about performers relying on public generosity for survival.
Conversely, some users, like @Perfect-June, defended the actors, emphasizing the low earnings in Nollywood and supporting their right to explore alternative income sources, including TikTok gifting.