Nigerian actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has disclosed that her 2024 film, Everybody Loves Jenifa, is her most expensive production to date. The film's production costs were significantly impacted by filming in both Nigeria and Ghana, as well as transporting the cast and crew between the two countries. Akindele revealed this information during an interview with CNN Africa journalist Larry Madowo.
The film, directed by Akindele and Tunde Olaoye, features a star-studded cast including Nancy Isime, Stan Nze, Falz, Lateef Adedimeji, Layi Wasabi, Jackie Appiah, Omowunmi Dada, and Patience Ozokwor. Everybody Loves Jenifa was released in Nigerian cinemas on December 13, 2024, and grossed approximately N1.88bn at the box office, making it one of the country's highest-grossing films. The movie's success can be attributed to its engaging storyline and Akindele's popular character, Jenifa.
Akindele explained her preference for constructing film sets specifically for her productions rather than relying on existing locations or shooting inside people's homes. She either rents or purchases a property before transforming it into a suitable filming location to achieve the desired production environment. This approach allows her to have creative control over the setting and ensure that it aligns with her vision for the film.
The origin of Akindele's popular Jenifa character dates back to the 2008 Yoruba comedy-drama film of the same title. She conceived the role as a village girl determined to become successful in the city despite her limited education and unconventional command of English. The character's exaggerated accent, unconventional mannerisms, and ambition quickly endeared her to audiences, earning Akindele widespread recognition.
Akindele's Jenifa character has become an iconic figure in Nigerian entertainment, with the actress winning the Best Actress in a Leading Role award at the 2009 Africa Movie Academy Awards for her performance in the film. She subsequently released The Return of Jenifa in 2011 and developed the television series Jenifa's Diary, which premiered in 2015. The character's popularity has endured, and Akindele continues to be celebrated for her portrayal.
In addition to discussing her professional achievements, Akindele also opened up about her personal struggles, including the emotional difficulties of dealing with public attention surrounding her failed marriages. The actress has been married twice, first to businessman Kehinde Oloyede from May 2012 to July 2013, and then to Nigerian rapper and filmmaker Abdulrasheed Bello, popularly known as JJC Skillz, from May 2016 to 2022.
Akindele reflected on the importance of self-care and prioritizing her happiness in recent years. She acknowledged that her priorities have shifted, and she now focuses on taking care of herself and making intentional decisions about her career and personal life. The actress emphasized that professional achievements can come and go, but certain aspects of life require consistent attention.
Key points
- Funke Akindele's 2024 film Everybody Loves Jenifa is her most expensive production due to filming costs in Nigeria and Ghana.
- The film grossed approximately N1.88bn at the box office, making it one of Nigeria's highest-grossing films.
- Akindele's popular character, Jenifa, was first introduced in the 2008 Yoruba comedy-drama film of the same title.
