From skits to silver screen: Nigerian influencers turning actors

Once upon a time, Nigerian comedy skits were just short videos, made to make people laugh on Instagram and YouTube. Fast-forward to 2025, and those same skit-makers are now gracing red carpets, starring in blockbuster movies, and even winning acting awards. If you blinked, you probably missed the moment Nigerian influencers stopped being just “online comedians” and started becoming full-blown actors.

How it all began.

For years, platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube were playgrounds for creatives with phones, Wi-Fi, and unlimited content ideas. Names like Kiekie, Mr Macaroni, Taaooma, Broda Shaggi, and Sydney Talker became household favorites, not just for being funny, but for building characters that felt real.

Taaooma (Maryam Apaokagi-Greene), known for playing multiple family members in her skits, has featured in films like Snakes, Alagbede and made cameo appearances in several web series.

Sydney Talker, a.k.a. “The Towel Guy,” has transformed his comedy fame into acting roles and even production—he launched Neville Records, proving he’s not just performing in front of the camera but also running things behind it. He has featured in movies like Loud, Fate of Alakada, and Obara’M.

Isbae U (Adebayo Ridwan), son of late veteran actor Kamal Adebayo ‘Sir Kay’ has featured in shows and movies, including his own web series “Inside Life With Isbae U,” combining scripted drama and skit-style humour.

Nollywood Comes Calling

As Nigerian cinema evolved, directors and producers began to realize: why go scouting for unknown talent when you’ve got influencers with ready-made fanbases and real acting potential? This is where influencers were infused into the system. Lets delve in:

Mr Macaroni (Adebowale “Debo” Adedayo):

He made waves in Ponzi, Ayinla, King of Thieves, Brotherhood, Gangs of Lagos, Jagun Jagun, Lisabi: The Uprising, Survivors, and the Netflix original Aníkúlápó: Rise of the Spectre, where his serious role surprised many fans.

Kiekie (Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori):

She went from comedy skits to red carpet host to movie star, with notable roles in Tanwa Savage, Flatline, Muri & Ko, Alakada: Bad and Boujee, Aso Ebi Diaries, Wives on Strike and series like Back From The Future.

Broda Shaggi (Samuel Perry):

He isn’t just the “Oya Hit Me” guy. He’s shown impressive range in Namaste Wahala, The Perfect Arrangement, Something Like Gold, Dwindle, Inside Life, and most recently Meeting Funmi’s Parents.

Officer Woos (Jubril Oladapo Gbadamosi):

Broda Shaggi’s frequent collaborator, is now landing small but steady film and TV roles, showcasing his knack for physical comedy and timing. He has featured in movies like Netflix thrillers Oga Bolaji, Love is Yellow and The Griot.

Nasboi (Lawal Michael Nasiru Bolaji):

Initially known for mimicking Davido, Nasboi has appeared in a few Nollywood projects like Pato, Dead Serious, Saving Onome, Passport, Lockdown. He is also a singer who is now being praised for his emotional range in skits that go beyond comedy.

Lasisi Elenu (Nosa Afolabi):

The ranter-turned-actor starred in The Razz Guy and also featured in Made in Heaven, Spotting The Difference, Small Talk, The Ghost and the Tout and African Messiah, where he flexed serious dramatic chops.

Layi Wasabi (Isaac Olayiwola):

One of the newer entrants, Layi’s courtroom-style comedy has already caught Nollywood’s attention. The 6.4ft tall 26-year-old begun teasing longer-form storytelling and is eyeing cinema projects. He has already starred in movies like Adire, Everybody Loves Jenifa, Family Brouhaha and After 30.

Brainjotter (Chukwuebuka Emmanuel Amuzie):

Brainjotter has featured in comedy movies and is moving into mainstream films. His huge fanbase makes him an attractive choice for producers.

Why the Shift is Working

This transition is so smart. Influencers bring:

Massive audiences ready to watch anything they’re in.

Well-developed characters that fit right into Nollywood storytelling.

Adaptability from working on tight skit schedules with minimal resources.

Also, if we are being honest, they’ve already been acting—just in bite-sized episodes. All they needed was a bigger screen and a longer script.

What This Means for Nollywood

Nigerian cinema is having a renaissance moment. With streaming platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and Showmax pumping money into productions, there’s a huge demand for fresh, relatable, and dynamic faces.

Influencers-turned-actors bring a new flavor. They speak the language of social media, they understand what Gen Z and millennials want, and they deliver performances that feel current, quirky, and culturally tuned in.

What’s Next?

Expect to see more crossover. Skit-makers are already hiring proper crews, investing in cinematography, and telling longer stories. Don’t be surprised if the next box office hit comes from a former Instagram comedian with a Canon camera and a dream.

And who knows? Maybe one day we’ll get to see a “Best Influencer-Turned-Actor” category at the AMVCAs.

Conclusion

From ring lights to red carpets, Nigerian influencers have rewritten the script. What started as 60-second laughs is now full-length impact.