YouTube Nollywood: Movie Making Is Not About Fine Faces — Kanayo Slams Producers Over Casting
Veteran Nollywood actor Kanayo O. Kanayo has raised serious concerns about what he described as a growing distortion in Nigeria’s film industry, especially on YouTube productions, where casting is increasingly driven by looks and social media popularity rather than raw acting talent.
PulseNets learnt that the legendary actor, whose real name is Anayo Modestus Onyekwere, is regarded as one of the foundational figures of Nollywood, having shot to fame through his role in the groundbreaking 1992 classic Living in Bondage.
With over three decades shaping African cinema, Kanayo has consistently stood as a defender of professionalism, quality, and true artistry in filmmaking.
In a video message obtained by PulseNets on Monday, the multiple award-winning actor revealed a bold new direction in his career, stressing that he would no longer chase already established names but instead focus his platform on unearthing hidden and emerging talents.
“I have decided to take my destiny in my own hands when it comes to my YouTube platform,” he declared.
“Filmmaking is not about having a fine face, it is about being a skilled actor, a real performer. Whether or not you are good-looking, my interest is in your ability to act. If anyone dislikes it, that’s unfortunate.”
Kanayo drew parallels between the current trend and what transpired during the formative years of Nollywood. He recalled how, more than two decades ago, sponsors and promoters sidelined capable actors simply because they were deemed “unmarketable.”
“I remember an incident over 25 years ago when Nollywood was still emerging. Sponsors suddenly began branding actors, saying: ‘this one is not good, this one doesn’t sell movies.’ They destroyed the careers of many talented people. I can mention names, but for the respect of this broadcast, I won’t,” he told PulseNets.
The actor warned that history is repeating itself on digital platforms.
“This dangerous trend is now reappearing on YouTube. The so-called YouTube faces are slowly killing raw talent in Nollywood,” he lamented.
Kanayo further criticised the monopoly of roles by a select few actors dominating YouTube productions, noting that this practice suffocates creativity and discourages new entrants into the industry.
“Some of these guys boldly say they are booked from September 2025 till August 2026. How then do we sustain Nollywood content? How do we create magic? How do we encourage fresh blood to join the business? I don’t want to be invited to a project because I am a ‘selling face.’ Call me because I can deliver quality performance,” he said firmly.
Reaffirming his commitment, Kanayo disclosed that his channel, Kanayo O. Kanayo TV on YouTube, will serve as a platform for discovering, mentoring, and showcasing rising stars who can genuinely act.
“If you’re a new talent, step forward. Let’s make magic on Kanayo O. Kanayo TV. Let’s craft stories with people who have the skill, who have the fire to act,” he urged.
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The Nollywood pioneer also expressed disappointment that the Nigerian creative industry often repeats past mistakes, but he maintained optimism that the obsession with faces over talent will not last forever.
“I don’t know why in Nigeria things always somersault. Right now, that somersault is happening on YouTube. But like my life’s philosophy has always been: this too shall pass,” he told PulseNets.
