Talented actress, producer, and director, Imade Osawaru, has made significant strides in the male-dominated entertainment industry.
The beautiful and busty UNIBEN graduate, who also happens to be an international chef, has proven that women can excel in any field.
In this interview with Sunday Sun, Osawaru discusses her career, relationships, and other fascinating aspects of her life.
Do you have any upcoming projects that you are excited about?
Yes, I’m excited about a few projects in the pipeline! One of them is the continuation of my comedy web series The General. I’m also working on a new cinema movie under MadeMonic Entertainment Productions, which I’m thrilled about. My team and I are focused on delivering high-quality entertainment that resonates with our audience.
In what ways are you promoting the Edo State entertainment sector with your crafts?
As a proud Benin girl, I strive to showcase Edo culture in my projects wherever possible. Through MadeMonic Entertainment Productions, I support local talent and create platforms for emerging actors and filmmakers from Edo State. By producing stories that reflect our rich culture and heritage, I aim to put Edo State on the map in the entertainment industry, both locally and globally.
How has the experience been as a producer and a woman for that matter?
It has been of different feelings because many producers would not want to call you for jobs because they will say she is already a producer, let her produce her job and act in it. That has affected me a lot. And some would say, how much can we pay her that would be enough as a producer? It has affected me in that part as well. However, the producing part has benefitted me more than the acting part. The acting part has adversely affected me relationship-wise. Anybody I was with before I started producing would have one complaint or the other with my role. You will hear, I watched a movie, and you kissed in that movie; you were romancing in that movie and all that. It has been an issue. But in my movies, they would say give yourself a role where you will not kiss.
Are there some kind of roles you would not accept to play?
I believe in the power of storytelling, but I also have personal boundaries. I wouldn’t accept roles that go against my core values or portray negative stereotypes of women or my culture. I look for characters that challenge me as an actor, but also align with my principles.
Can you recall any embarrassing moment as a public figure?
Oh, absolutely! There was this one time during a red carpet-event when I tripped over my dress right in front of the cameras. It was a bit embarrassing, but I quickly laughed it off. Moments like that remind me that no matter how glamorous things seem, we’re all human.
We hear there is no true friendship in Nollywood, is that true?
While the industry is competitive, I believe true friendships can and do exist in Nollywood. I’ve built meaningful relationships with colleagues who support and uplift each other. It’s all about surrounding yourself with genuine people who share your vision and values.
What is your kind of man?
I just want a good, kind-hearted man, caring but also God-fearing. Any religion you are in does not matter to me. Just believe that God exists. You don’t have to be rich, but comfortable enough to take care of your family.
Have you ever been jilted by a man, how did you handle it?
Everyone has faced heartache at some point, and I’m no exception. It’s always painful, but I believe in learning from those experiences, focusing on personal growth, and moving forward with grace. Life has taught me to never let disappointment define me.
You have a fascinating fashion sense, what does fashion mean to you?
I just want to look good and smart. People think that we on the big side have certain ways that we should be dressing. No. My dress depends on my mood. I can look sexy and I look sexy for myself. If I want to look churchy, I will look that way, the same thing goes for corporate, classy. I just love looking cool.
What next should fans expect from you?
Fans can expect to see me featured in more exciting movie roles. I’m focused on expanding my acting career and taking on diverse characters that will challenge me and resonate with the audience. I’m also exploring new collaborations with talented filmmakers, so there’s a lot to look forward to.
