Nollywood is the most recognized movie industry in Africa and second to Hollywood in the world. Nigerian actors have come and gone and many left a huge impact on the fans. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best Nigerian actors of all time. We specifically tagged it “Old Generation” with good reason. Most of Nollywood most performing actors today were not even there 5-6 years ago. The old generation actors are seen as legends, role modes and mentors to even the new generation actors. They are top class and have worked their way to become the most talented actors in Nigeria due to their raw talent. So lets get straight to it;
Pete Edochie
Pete Edochie is considered as one of the most talented actors in Africa. His talent cannot be over exaggerated as he is know for taking diverse roles and portraying them perfectly. Ebubedike as he is popularly known as was first gotten from his role as Okonkwo in things fall apart. The star has only risen to greater heights since then. He is married to Josephine Edochie and they habe 6 children together.
Olu Jacobs
There is no doubt in anyone’s mind on the raw talent of Olu Jacobs. His full name is Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs and he was born in Abeokuta on 11 July 1942. He is married to Joke Silva who is also a renowned actress and they both have 3 children together.
Nkem Owoh
Nkem Owoh, popularly known as “Osuofia” due to his blockbuster movie Osuofia in London. He is definitely among the Legends of Nollywood and majority of Nigerians love his acting. Nkem Owoh can take of roles from a king to a chief priest to a wise cunning man. He is popularly known for his wit and cunning movies. Osuofia is one of the greatest actors in Nollywood without a doubt.
Osita Iheme
Osita Iheme A.K.A “Paw-Paw” is one of those actors you cant just miss or forget. His voice and stature just makes him stand out but his raw talent in acting is the real block buster. He is famously known for his roles acting along side Chinedu Ikedieze (Aki). They both come to light when taking on mischievous roles in movies.
Chinedu Ikedieze
Chinedu Ikedieze famously known as “Aki” is another raw talent in Nollywood. He is known for starring alongside Osita Iheme in movies and their duo is simply amazing.
RICHARD MOFE DAMIJO
Richard Mofe Damijo (RMD) is one of those actors whose initials appear everywhere. He is an active politician and a very talented actors. RMD has bagged numerous awards because of his acting skills.
KANAYO. O. KANAYO
Anayo Modestus Onyekwere popularly known as Kanayo O Kanayo is an incredible actor. He has taken roles with different characters and nailed them perfectly. New generation actors can only wish to achieve his level of expertise in the film industry.
KENNETH OKONKWO
Don’t forget, we are talking about old generational actors and most of them have probably taken a break from Nollywood. You’ll need to bring a really nice project that’s worth their time to bring them back on screen. Kenneth Okonkwo became very popular after taking the lead role in “Living in Bondage”. He is an award winning actor and has performed in multiple movies overtime.
JOHN OKAFOR
The legendary John Okafor also known as Mr Ibu is an actor we all love and admire. He is best known for taking on comedic roles and there in no dull moment seeing him in action. This list could never be complete without one of the funniest actors in Nigeria.
SAM DEDE
Sam Dede is also an award winning actor, highly talented and can take on different roles. He is popularly know from his role in an old movie titled “Ijele”. Sam Dede has starred in many movies and his talent knows no bounds.
Honourary Mentions
There are many actors that definitely should make this list, some may be late, some may have quit acting a long time ago. Don’t worry, there is a list of best female actors in Nigeria coming up too, stay tuned so you wont miss it. Here are some honorable mentions;
- Sam Dede (RIP)
- Sam Loco Efe (RIP)
- Enebeli Elebuwa (RIP)
- Emeka Ike
- Segun Arinze
- Ramsey Noah
- Van Vicker
