Nigerian actress, producer, and director Regina Chukwu has opened up about her experiences within the entertainment industry, she noted that the English industry was strictly sex for roles.
The actress made this known in a recent interview, recalling her early days trying to break into the movie industry.
Regina stated, “There’s a place we normally go for auditions at Surulere, Winnings Hotel. That was where those actors used to be, including Genevieve and co. We were all sitting at Winnings Hotel and I tried auditioning several times but they are not as accommodating as Yorubas.”
Despite her heritage, she highlighted how easily she integrated into the Yoruba film sector due to her upbringing.
She explained, “Despite the fact that I’m Igbo by tribe. You will have to start sleeping with them before getting to the top, starting from their generator guys. Lots of fake scripts to lure you into sexual intimacy. They are not accommodating. It is easier for me to relate with the Yorubas; maybe it’s because I was born and grew among the Yorubas all my life.”
“For the English industry, it was strictly sex for role. They won’t hide it from you. I’m well known in Lagos and other South West States, but they don’t know me in my state as an actor. Enugu is a place that if I enter today, nobody will say hi I know you”. She added.
Born on March 23, 1980, in Iyana Ipaja, Lagos, though originally from Enugu State, Regina Chukwu grew up in Alimosho where she attended primary and grammar schools before proceeding to Lagos State Polytechnic. Although she initially aspired to feature in English-language films, the warm and welcoming nature of the Yoruba-speaking sector drew her in, prompting her to build a flourishing career there.
Her journey into professional acting involved understudying industry figures like Kunle Afod and working as a set makeup artist to network and secure minor parts. Her breakthrough arrived when she established her production outfit, Triple R Production, and produced her self-starting hit movie, Ogunso.
Over the years, Regina has built an impressive filmography boasting numerous home videos and feature films. Some of her most notable projects include Ogunso, Idaro, Akun, Ewatomi, Bridal Shower, Encounter, Two Mothers, Family Ties, Ifedolapo, Couple’s Award, Agbede Meji, Wetin Women Want, Alase, and Funke Akindele’s box-office hit Battle on Buka Street.
Her stellar performances have earned her multiple accolades and nominations, including a Best Supporting Actress win (Yoruba) at the Best of Nollywood Awards. Beyond her on-screen presence and production endeavors, she remains a prominent cultural figure in the Nigerian entertainment space, admired for her resilience and business ventures.
