Adesua Etomi’s fans may never know when exactly they fell in love with her. Was it in Brave, Knocking on Heaven’s Door, or Falling? Chances are we woke up one day and realized that this beautiful, talented actress born in Imo State to a Yoruba mother and an Esan father, had captured our hearts completely.
Joy Ehonwa had 10 questions for the star, who won Best Actress in a Drama at the 2016 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and has her sights on an Oscar someday.
CN: When did you first become conscious of your acting talent?
At about seven, I became aware of acting in general when I watched Coming to America. I remember watching Lisa (Shari Headley) and thinking to myself that I’d like to be her. So, I went on to join the drama group in primary school. I used to do recitals; I was always very good with lines. I think at that young age I knew, and when it was time I did.
CN: The Wedding Party was amazing. What were your thoughts when you first read the script?
I was particularly excited because I hadn’t read a script that explored Nigerian weddings the way The Wedding Party did. I was very excited when I read the script and even more excited when I was told who my co-stars would be. With everything this project had, I knew that the cards were stacked up for this to be an amazing film.
CN: Do Adesua Etomi and Oladunni Coker have little, or much in common?
I think we have a few things in common. One of which is that Oladunni is very sweet, she wears her heart on her sleeve and I’m that way too.
CN: Which actors inspire you the most?
I am inspired by every actor that is brave enough to put themselves out there. I am inspired by actors who give 100%. Actors who live and breathe their craft. I am a huge cinephile so I watch everything and it gives me the greatest joy to see amazing acting performances.
CN: If you weren’t an actor, what career path might you have followed?
Nothing else, acting is what I was born to do.
CN: What do you consider to be the best career decision you have ever made?
Making the decision to act. Every project I have done has led to where I’m at now. It has all added up to this moment in time.
CN: How do you relax when you’re not working?
I hang out with my friends and we have great conversations over good food.
CN: Which books have impacted your life significantly?
There’s a book called Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers, it changed my life. And also, Rich Dad Poor Dad was a really good read.
CN: How would you describe your ideal man?
He would be someone who loves God. Someone that motivates, inspires and makes me laugh.
CN: How many movies have you acted in so far, and what are your plans for the future?
I’ve been in seven (7) features so far. In the near future, I would like to win an Oscar.