Omotola Jalade Ekeinde Refuses to Dance for Movie Promotion, Speaks on Industry Trends
Veteran Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade Ekeinde has stated that she will not participate in dancing to promote movies, weighing in on growing trends in the Nigerian film industry that often feature actors performing dance routines for publicity.
In a recent interview, Omotola emphasized that her focus has always been on her acting and storytelling skills rather than relying on viral dance videos or social media gimmicks to promote films. “I will not be dancing to promote any movie,” she said firmly. “For me, my craft is what sells a film, not gimmicks or trends.”
The actress highlighted that while she respects younger actors who use dance and social media to market their projects, she prefers traditional methods of film promotion, such as interviews, screenings, and media appearances. She added that this approach allows her to connect with audiences in a more meaningful way and maintain the dignity of her work.
Omotola also spoke about the changing landscape of Nollywood, noting that trends like viral dances can help movies reach wider audiences but are not necessarily reflective of an actor’s talent or the quality of the film. “There’s nothing wrong with these trends, but I personally choose to let my performance speak for itself,” she explained.
The veteran actress, who has over two decades of experience in Nollywood, said she hopes upcoming actors focus on honing their skills rather than relying solely on publicity stunts. “Talent and consistency will always outlast trends,” she added.
Omotola’s comments come amid a surge in short-form social media content, where actors often engage in dance challenges to generate buzz for new releases. Her stance has sparked discussion online, with fans praising her for sticking to her principles, while some argue that embracing modern trends could benefit film promotion.
Despite the differing opinions, Omotola’s statement reaffirms her position as a seasoned professional committed to the craft of acting and a traditional approach to movie marketing.
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