“I Once Stole Food To Survive” — Madam Saje Opens Up On Painful Struggles Before Fame

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Veteran Nollywood actress Fausat Balogun, widely known as Madam Saje, has shared an emotional account of the hardships she faced on her journey to success in the Nigerian film industry.

In a recent interview with The African List, the respected actress reflected on her early years in Nollywood, revealing that life was far from glamorous at the beginning of her career. According to her, the road to recognition was filled with financial struggles, uncertainty, and moments of extreme survival.

Balogun disclosed that there were times when she and her colleagues worked tirelessly on film sets without receiving any form of payment. Despite their dedication and passion, they often returned home with nothing to show for their efforts.

“Anyone who says they don’t face challenges in this job is lying. I suffered a lot in this job. My sufferings have turned to joy. We went to shoot a movie at a school, didn’t make any money, and came back empty-handed,” she said.

The actress went further to recount one of the most difficult moments of her life—when hunger pushed her and others to desperate measures.

“We had a moment where we went to steal food to survive. I remember a place in Oyo State where they sold Amala: you pay in one place and collect soup elsewhere. The little money we had, we would manage to eat,” she revealed.

Her story paints a vivid picture of the sacrifices many early Nollywood actors made at a time when the industry lacked structure, financial stability, and adequate support systems.

Despite the painful experiences, Balogun emphasized that those difficult seasons ultimately shaped her journey and strengthened her resilience. Today, she stands as one of the most respected figures in the Yoruba film industry, with decades of experience and numerous memorable roles to her name.

Using her personal story as a lesson, the veteran actress encouraged young and upcoming actors not to lose hope when faced with challenges. She stressed that perseverance and patience are essential qualities for anyone seeking long-term success.

“Don’t be too faster than your destiny, wait for your time. When your time comes, it will be like you did a money ritual,” she advised.

Her remarks highlight a recurring theme in Nollywood—where many established stars often recount humble beginnings marked by struggle before achieving fame and stability.

Balogun’s candid revelation has resonated with many, serving as both a reminder of how far the industry has come and a source of inspiration for aspiring creatives. Her journey underscores the importance of endurance, faith, and consistency, especially in a competitive field like acting.

From enduring unpaid roles to facing hunger, Madam Saje’s story is a powerful testament to the reality behind the spotlight—and proof that success often comes after seasons of hardship.

Watch her speak below…

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