Jide Awobona Condemns Actors Publicly Mocking One Another

Image: IG 

 

There is enough pressure that comes with working in the entertainment industry without colleagues adding to it. That is the concern Nollywood actor Jide Awobona recently raised as he reflected on the growing habit of some actors publicly mocking or attacking others instead of standing by them.

In a post on his page, the actor expressed disappointment over what he described as a troubling trend among some people within the creative industry. According to him, it is one thing for members of the public to criticise actors, but it is far more disappointing when those in the same profession willingly join in.

Awobona said he finds it surprising that people who understand the demands of acting would choose to ridicule fellow creatives in public spaces. He also suggested that the problem goes beyond harsh comments, claiming that some individuals spread rumours or even make up stories about their colleagues despite not knowing the full facts.

He noted that, in some cases, these stories are deliberately passed to blogs with the intention of damaging another person's reputation. To him, such actions are driven by envy, resentment or a desire to pull others down rather than genuine concern.

For the actor, the most disturbing part is seeing fellow creatives openly participate in online trolling instead of rising above it. He believes people working in the same industry should know better because they understand the emotional, mental and professional sacrifices that come with the job.

Sharing his thoughts, he stated:

“I’m always amazed when people who call themselves actors jump into comment sections to shade or mock other actors/creatives at large.

It’s bad enough that some of them gossip and even fabricate stories when they don’t have the facts, all in the attempt to tarnish someone’s image out of envy or spite. Some even go so far as to send these stories to blogs, hoping to damage another person’s reputation.

But having the confidence to join the trolling publicly? That’s the part I find most disturbing.

As creatives, we should understand the work, the sacrifices, the emotions, and the mental health this profession demands. If your contributions are constantly tearing down your colleagues, you’re not acting like a creative. You’re behaving like an audience member, a fan, a hater, or a troll”.

Awobona's message centres on the importance of solidarity within the creative community. Rather than becoming part of online attacks or encouraging negative narratives, he believes colleagues should be mindful of the impact their words and actions can have on others.

His remarks also draw attention to conversations around professionalism, respect and mental well-being in the entertainment industry. While criticism may be inevitable in a public-facing career, Awobona maintains that creatives should hold themselves to a higher standard and choose support over public ridicule whenever possible.

#JideAwobona

 #Nollywood 

#EntertainmentNews

 #MentalHealthMatters 

#SupportCreatives