What Happened to the MTV Shuga Stars — From Teen Drama to Real-World Impact

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When MTV Shuga first hit African screens, it wasn’t just another teen drama  it was a cultural phenomenon. Tackling everything from HIV awareness to gender dynamics, the show provided a platform for emerging talent across the continent. 

Years later, the actors who once graced the screen in school uniforms and love triangles have grown into leading voices in film, activism, and beyond. Seven standout stars from the franchise  from Nigeria to South Africa  have charted remarkable paths that reflect both the impact of the show and the power of youth storytelling.

Olumide Oworu was one of the central figures of Shuga Naija, portraying Weki, a young man navigating the turbulent world of peer pressure and self-identity. Today, Olumide has moved well beyond teenage roles. 

After starring in hits like A Tribe Called Judah, Voltage, and The Black Book, he appeared in the acclaimed 2024 historical film Lisabi: A Legend Is Born. But 2025 has seen him take a noticeable step back from acting. His political aspirations  most notably his 2023 candidacy for a seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly under the Labour Party  have shifted public perception of him. 

While he lost that race to Desmond Elliot, his message of civic responsibility and youth involvement resonated widely. Since then, he’s focused on community work and hinted at launching a youth advocacy platform, proving that his influence goes far beyond entertainment.

Jemima Osunde, another fan favorite from Shuga Naija, has transformed into one of Nollywood’s most bankable actresses. Known for her grace and range, Jemima used her platform from Shuga to build a career that spans both romantic comedies and socially driven dramas.

 She's continued to balance acting with public health advocacy, having trained as a physiotherapist. In 2025, she remains a visible force on screen and a voice for young Nigerian women seeking both education and independence.

Timini Egbuson, who also gained mainstream fame through Shuga, has evolved into a heartthrob and one of Nollywood’s busiest leading men. 

With consistent film and television roles, he’s managed to bridge the gap between youth-focused stories and more mature narratives. His journey reflects how Shuga alumni have managed to stay relevant, while expanding their craft in an industry that often churns out new faces at a dizzying pace.

Adebukola Oladipupo, remembered for her emotional and relatable portrayal of Faa, was part of the series during its Lagos chapters and later in Shuga Alone Together during the pandemic.

 Her character's struggles mirrored real-life concerns for many Nigerian youth, and she brought that energy off-screen as well. In the years since, Adebukola has taken on film roles that continue to challenge stereotypes and push for social awareness, including a part in the 2024 film Òlòtūré: The Journey.

South African star Thuso Mbedu, who appeared in Shuga Down South, may arguably be the biggest global success story from the franchise. After earning acclaim for her performance on the series, she broke into Hollywood, starring in major productions like The Underground Railroad and The Woman King. Her crossover success has been inspirational, especially for African actors aspiring to international careers.

Chimezie Imo is another name worth mentioning. Having joined the cast of Shuga Naija in later seasons, his star has only risen since then. By 2025, he has become one of Nollywood’s most critically acclaimed young actors. 

His role in Choke earned him nominations and respect from both peers and audiences, while his recent feature Adam Bol marks a landmark Nigerian–Kazakhstani collaboration. He also clinched the AMVCA Trailblazer Award in 2024, signaling that he is far from done.

Lastly, Ayanda Makayi, who played Sol in Shuga Down South, continues to act in South African television and theatre. His time on Shuga positioned him as a voice for young South Africans, and he has maintained that presence both on and off screen.

Together, these seven actors are a testament to what MTV Shuga set out to achieve — not just sparking conversation, but launching careers grounded in impact. As they continue to grow, one thing is clear: the Shuga generation is just getting started.

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