Mary Njoku rejects gold digger label, notes men benefit similarly
Mary Remmy Njoku, a Nollywood actress, challenged the gold digger label often applied to women who benefit from wealthy men’s generosity, pointing out a double standard in how society describes men in similar situations. In a September 4, 2026 social media post, she asked what to call 17 men who constantly surround a successful man named Emeka, eating his food, wearing clothes he bought, having their bills paid and enjoying his money, yet are described only as his boys, or in terms of brotherhood, networking and loyalty. Njoku argued that when men benefit from proximity to wealth, the behavior is given respectable labels, while women doing the same are stigantized as gold diggers. She noted that men, women, friends, relatives and employees can all be drawn to people whose wealth or position makes life easier, and the language used shapes perception and judgment. The actress’s comment highlights how gendered language can reinforce stereotypes and affect opportunities for women who receive support from affluent acquaintances.
When you hear about someone benefiting from a wealthy friend’s generosity, do you reach for the term gold digger only if the person is a woman? Consider using neutral language like beneficiary or financial supporter regardless of gender to reduce stigma.