Actress Bimbo Ademoye
Nigeria actress and filmmaker, Bimbo Ademoye has revealed what shaped her life while growing up.
In a recent appearance on VJ Adams’ podcast, she shared personal insights into her journey from humble beginnings to fame, while also revealing her aspirations for her future wedding.
Let’s talk about your first audition. Can you remember it?
Yes, sure. It was in Surulere. Did I get the role? No. My dad took me there and waited outside for six hours. I played a cultist during the audition, but I didn’t get the role. I attended about 10 more auditions and still didn’t secure any role.
Can you remember the first audition where you actually got a role?
That’s the thing. I keep telling people I’m not really a great audition actor, if that makes sense. Whenever I’m asked to audition, I hardly ever get the role. Most of the time I mess it up. But when I’m just called on the phone and told, “We’re picking you for this role,” then you see me in action. I’m not really great when it comes to auditions, so I don’t have a clear memory of any audition that landed me a role.
What time do you sleep on the average every day?
Oh dear, you had to ask me that. Around 4 a.m. I have some sort of insomnia.
What does success mean to you?
Success is basically wanting something and being able to achieve it, regardless of the circumstances. It’s seeing the end product of something that was once a dream become a reality. Success comes in different shapes and forms, no matter how small. Even something as little as deciding not to eat late at night and actually sticking to it—that’s success.
From the projects you’ve worked on, which one gave you the most satisfaction?
Everything, honestly. I would have said my very first one, Unexpected Places. I wished for one million views in 48 hours, and instead, it did 10 million views. Watching the numbers rise was an amazing feeling. I woke up the next day singing and thanking God. Then another project came and had challenges, followed by another that did even better. It just keeps going, so it’s hard to single out one project.
Actress Bimbo Ademoye
At what point did you realise that fame had kicked in, and which movie did that for you?
That’s a beautiful but tough question because, till today, I don’t really feel like fame has kicked in. Sometimes I’m just being normal until someone calls my name and I realise they mean me. I think it started around 2018 with Backup Wife, when I got my first AMVCA nomination. Then came Looking for Baami, Sugar Rush, and later Aníkúlápó. It just kept building.
How challenging was filming Aníkúlápó, especially since it wasn’t in Lagos?
We were on set for 40 days. I was very passionate about that project, especially Part 1. I missed home and my loved ones, but I knew we were doing something great, so I gave it my all. I’m glad it turned out the way it did.
Are you in love?
Am I in love with my career? Absolutely.
Is that the only thing you’re in love with?
No. I’m also in love with my family. I adore my family.
What was your first car?
A Toyota Matrix. My dad got it for me as a graduation gift after university.
Early in your career, you did some presenting. Was that because you were still trying to find your footing in acting?
I didn’t want to be idle or leave the entertainment field, so I ventured into presenting—but never again.
If you had a daughter, what would you name her?
She would definitely have my middle name, Aisha. I feel like my dad would want to pick the Muslim name. I already have a name for my son, though—Ademini Alua, which means God is my crown.
Where would you really love to visit?
Bali, because I love nature—the trees, valleys and mountains. But honestly, I also love going to the UK and the US because I enjoy shopping. I’m a shopaholic.
If you were to cast three actors for an action comedy, who would you choose?
Bucci Franklin, Ibrahim Adebola Adams, and for the action side, Tobi Bakre.
Does being an influencer help in rolling out your own movie projects?
Yes and no. Yes, in the sense that I use my influence and skills. But what really inspired me were legends like Toyin Abraham and Funke Akindele. Funke is the queen of marketing. I believe a film is a film, whether it’s on YouTube, Netflix or elsewhere, and I treat my films with that mindset.
Would you take your films to Netflix, Prime or cinemas?
Yes, but not for now. The numbers are discouraging. With the current costs, it’s hard to even recoup capital, let alone make a profit. Maybe when the environment looks more promising.
Have you ever been upset on set because someone wasn’t getting a scene right?
Yes, several times. But I remind myself that I was once there too. I don’t think I started as a great actor. My face gives away my frustration, though.
What are your thoughts on politics? Would you run for office?
Never say never, but right now, no. I might because my dad is a politician and you know, the hood where I’m from. Sometimes I look at them and like, maybe I should run for office and just, just help these people. But they’re just five-second thoughts and just moving on, but right now I don’t think so. Maybe in my 50s I might consider it.
How much did growing up in the hood shape you?
About 99.9 per cent. I grew up in Ikorodu, Oshodi and Ebute Metta.
What kind of wedding would you want?
A very small wedding—about 20 guests from both sides.
Where would you rather have it: Ebute Metta, Oshodi or Ikorodu?
Ebute Metta.
From a physical standpoint, what’s your kind of man?
He should look good, be tall, and have a beard—taller than me even when I’m wearing heels.
Have you ever fought on the road?
When I was much younger, yes—about five times. Now, no.
What kind of mother do you think you’ll be?
A very doting one, but also firm. I want to parent like my dad—loving, but commanding respect.
What makes you happiest beyond career success?
Making my family proud. Knowing that my name and the people associated with me are seen in a positive light makes me very happy.
How would you like to be remembered?
As a phenomenal actor and filmmaker who respected her audience, always gave a helping hand, and was also a great mother and wife.
Apart from your immediate family, who are you closest to?
Bisola Aiyeola, Adedimeji Lateef and Jemima Osunde.
Have you ever cried while watching a movie?
Yes, an Indian film called We Are Family. I also shed a “thug tear” while watching Shining Star, which I produced.
Actress Bimbo Ademoye
Do you watch movies you star in?
Only to spot mistakes. I’ve never sat through one from start to finish.
What about wellness—do you like working out?
I like the idea of it, but consistency has been a challenge.
Did you have a nickname growing up?
Someone once called me “Up NEPA” because of my bow legs. I felt like it was hate.
Are you more of a spender or a saver?
I spend a lot, but I save first, into three different places, before I splurge.
Would you get more tattoos?
I don’t think so. Maybe after having kids.
If you were an animal, which would you be?
A gazelle for beauty, but I’d also like to be a lion or tiger for strength.