Patrick Doyle Praises Ex-Wife Ireti, Says His Name Helped Open Industry Doors

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Veteran Nollywood actor Patrick Doyle has offered fresh insight into his relationship with his former wife, actress Ireti Doyle, sharing why he chooses restraint whenever conversations drift toward their separation. The pair, who tied the knot in 2004 and officially ended their marriage earlier this year, have managed to remain cordial and even professionally aligned, recently appearing together in the 2023 film The Black Book.

During an appearance on Wake Up Nigeria, Patrick made it clear that he prefers to preserve peace rather than speak disparagingly about anyone—especially someone he once shared a life with. According to him, his personal values and spiritual convictions guide his conduct.

“I would like to say that if I don’t have anything nice to say about a person, I would rather remain silent. My anointing doesn’t allow me to speak ill of anyone, whether dead or alive,” he stated, stressing that negativity has no place in how he chooses to address the past.

While reflecting on Ireti’s accomplishments, Patrick acknowledged her steady rise in the film industry and expressed pride in the way she has carried the Doyle name throughout her career. He noted that the surname, which she retained after their separation, played a contributory role in the doors that opened for her.

“I’m happy that the Doyle name has opened doors for her, and so far she hasn’t disgraced the name. She is doing very well, and I’m proud of her achievements in the industry. I hope it continues that way,” he remarked.

His comments echo sentiments he made earlier this year, when he suggested that Ireti’s continued use of the Doyle surname was linked to its established recognition and influence in Nollywood. At the time, he emphasized that his career stood firmly on its own merit and did not rely on the identity of any partner.

“I can never be defined by her. My body of work is too solid to be defined by anyone. Why is Doyle popular? Why did the person revert to Doyle after the separation? Who is responsible for making whom popular? The name predates that person’s emergence. It is okay with me. I do not have a problem with it,” he said, implying that the name carries a legacy that long existed before their marriage.

Despite the end of their union, Patrick insists there is no animosity, underscoring his desire for both parties to continue thriving independently. His remarks highlight a mature approach to coexisting in the same industry without the bitterness that often follows public breakups.

Patrick remarried in 2022 to Olufunmilayo, with their marriage becoming public knowledge in March 2023. Even with his new chapter underway, he maintains a respectful tone toward Ireti, reinforcing his belief that dignity and calm should guide post-divorce interactions—especially when both individuals remain visible figures in the entertainment world.

Watch him speak below…

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