Deyemi Okanlawon Quits Acting in 2019 Over Nonsense Pay, Returns to 9-5 Job

Nigerian movie star Deyemi Okanlawon revealed in a recent CreativiTea podcast interview that he quit acting in 2019 because the pay was nonsense and the work felt unfulfilling. He said he struggled to motivate himself each morning, feeling that leaving a regular 9-5 job for mediocre acting work made no sense, so he returned to a conventional 9-5 position. Okanlawon, known for roles in several Nollywood productions, said the lack of fulfillment and inadequate compensation drove his decision to step away from the screen. His comments shed light on ongoing concerns about remuneration and working conditions in Nigeria's film industry, where many actors report irregular pay and undervaluation of their craft. The revelation comes amid broader conversations about talent retention and the need for better compensation structures to keep skilled performers in the industry. For those considering or currently pursuing a creative career, his experience raises the question: would you tolerate low pay and unfulfilling work for the sake of passion, or would you prioritize financial stability and personal satisfaction, perhaps by seeking alternative employment or negotiating better terms?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/01/i-quit-acting-because-pay-was-nonsense-deyemi-okanlawon-video/