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Nigerian actress, producer, and model Yvonne Jegede first stepped into the entertainment world through her late uncle, Ignis Ekwe, who introduced her to film sets when she was around 19 or 20 years old. Initially working as his personal assistant, Yvonne’s journey into acting began unexpectedly when she boldly approached filmmaker Charles Novia, leading to her debut role in Missing Angels alongside stars like Desmond Elliot and Stella Damasus.
The ‘African Queen’ Breakthrough
Though many remember Yvonne from 2Face Idibia’s iconic music video African Queen, she initially resisted the idea of appearing in music videos. When first invited to dance in the video, she declined, not knowing the song or the artist well. Later, encouraged by a friend who loved the song, she accepted the role and met 2Face for the first time on set, a moment that marked the beginning of a lasting career over two decades.
Choosing Acting Over Dancing
Yvonne admits that her heart has always been set on acting rather than dancing or modeling. While she appeared briefly in music videos like Djinee’s Ego, she consciously decided to focus on acting, despite the stigma attached to the profession at the time. Convincing her family that acting was her passion was a significant challenge she overcame early on.
Introversion and Career Choices
Describing herself as introverted, Yvonne prefers solitude and values privacy, which she believes affects the number and type of roles she’s offered. “I might not be in your face,” she says, explaining that producers sometimes forget to consider her during casting until last-minute calls. Nevertheless, she finds her career fulfilling and appreciates the growth and experiences it has given her.
Dealing with Public Scrutiny
Living in the public eye has not been easy for Yvonne. She compares it to being in a pot of hot beans, where every action is intensely scrutinized. She recalls an incident where a simple hug sparked online backlash and emphasizes her preference for a quiet life away from social media drama. Despite this, she values the ability to express herself and her humanity through her work.
Body Positivity and Surgical Transparency
Yvonne addresses rumors about cosmetic surgery openly, clarifying that she has undergone liposuction but not Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedures. She views her body primarily as a tool for artistic expression and chooses to maintain a slim figure to fit the roles she desires, such as playing a fit police officer or a lead in romantic comedies. She stresses that being physically agile helps her perform better in demanding roles.
Navigating the Industry’s New Demands
The entertainment industry now often requires actors to dance and engage in more than just acting. Yvonne acknowledges the economic realities that compel actors to diversify their talents and income streams. She highlights the role of platforms like YouTube and Facebook in providing daily earnings, which help sustain actors financially.
Venturing into YouTube and Film Production
Yvonne recently produced her first full-length YouTube film, Chef of My Heart, encouraged by Nollywood friend Mercy Johnson. She also continues creating skits on social media, balancing her passion for acting with the practical need to generate income. Her upcoming projects include Cordelia, marking an exciting phase in her career.
The Role of Management in an Actor’s Career
Yvonne stresses the importance of having a management company in the entertainment business. Managers often have access to opportunities and insider information that actors might miss. Many of her significant auditions and roles have come through her manager, underscoring how vital professional representation is for success.
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