JUST IN: Actor Ray Emodi Quits Nollywood [VIRAL VIDEO]
Nollywood actor Ray Emodi has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian film industry by announcing his permanent exit from acting and a dive into the music industry.
In an Instagram video, the star revealed that his decision stems from a series of traumatic and life-threatening experiences encountered while filming in turbulent regions. Emodi, who has previously been open about his struggles with anxiety, confessed that the mental toll of the profession has become to much to bear, leading him to walk away from a career that brought him fame and fulfillment for a while.
The actor’s recount of his final days on set painted a harrowing picture of the risks faced by Nigerian film crews. Emodi described a specific incident where production continued despite audible gunfire from a neighboring town plagued by violence.
“I have stopped acting in films. I quit… I shot a film in a town that I won’t mention, but we were literally hearing gunshots. There was like a craziness going on in the town next to our town, and we were still shooting,” he stated.
The “craziness” he noted, forced him to consider his safety and mental well-being. Also, internal family friction added another layer to his departure. The actor admitted that a family member whom he described as having “strict rules and a reputation to protect” does not support his decision to leave the screen.
Despite the lack of domestic backing, Emodi remains resolute in his choice to protect the family name from any perceived “stain” while prioritizing his health.
“It is not easy to say no. It is difficult to turn them down when they call you, but I had to say no. I had to stop saying yes,” he added, acknowledging the heavy consequences of his exit.
While the curtains have closed on his acting chapter, a new musical journey is beginning. The former leading man says he is pivoting fully into the music industry, promising his loyal Nollywood fanbase that he is not abandoning them, but simply switching lanes.
“I love music. I have always loved music… I want you guys to come with me on this journey. I love every single Nollywood fan, and I am not leaving you. I am just going to make music,” Emodi promised.
Notably, the actor is now preparing to release his debut project under this new identity, as fans and industry observers alike watch closely to see whether Emodi’s music can replicate the remarkable commercial success he once enjoyed as one of Nollywood’s most sought-after romantic leads.
