Veteran Nigerian actor Kanayo O. Kanayo has spoken out against some Ghanaian actors who demand the same fees as Nigerian actors for appearances in the same movie. In a viral social media video, Kanayo expressed his frustration with the trend, stating that actors should negotiate pay based on their individual experience, reputation, and value to a production. He emphasized that there is a hierarchy in the movie industry, just like in heaven.
Kanayo, popularly known as KOK, made the comments after joining the cast of Ghanaian actor and filmmaker Kwadwo Nkansah LilWin's upcoming movie, A Journey to Africa (Nzulezu). He claimed that some Ghanaian actors questioned the fees being paid to Nigerian performers, and even asked producers to give them the same amount. Kanayo advised Ghanaian actors to focus on negotiating their own pay rather than comparing themselves to Nigerian actors.
According to Kanayo, the issue was not just a general observation, but had also come up during the Ghanaian production he is currently working on. Some actors on the project reportedly questioned the fees being paid to Nigerian performers, prompting Kanayo to speak out. He revealed that he was prepared to mention their names but decided against it after being advised not to.
Kanayo emphasized that he was one of the founding fathers of movie-making in Africa and felt that Ghanaian actors should not expect to be paid the same as him. He stressed that there is a hierarchy in the movie industry and that actors should be paid based on their individual merit. Kanayo's comments have sparked a debate about pay equity in the African movie industry.
The issue has raised questions about the dynamics of pay for actors from different countries in the African movie industry. Kanayo's comments have been met with mixed reactions, with some agreeing that actors should be paid based on their individual merit, while others argue that pay equity is essential for fairness. The debate is likely to continue as the African movie industry continues to evolve.
Kanayo's experience on the set of A Journey to Africa (Nzulezu) highlights the challenges of working across national borders in the African movie industry. The film, which features a mix of Ghanaian and Nigerian actors, is expected to showcase the talents of both countries. However, Kanayo's comments have brought attention to the need for clearer guidelines on pay and compensation for actors working on international productions.
The controversy surrounding Kanayo's comments has sparked a wider conversation about the African movie industry and the need for greater collaboration and understanding between countries. As the industry continues to grow and evolve, it is likely that issues like pay equity will remain a topic of discussion. Key players in the industry will need to work together to find solutions that promote fairness and equality for all actors.
Key points
- Kanayo O. Kanayo criticizes Ghanaian actors demanding equal pay with Nigerians.
- Kanayo emphasizes that actors should negotiate pay based on individual experience and merit.
- The controversy has sparked a debate about pay equity in the African movie industry.
