You have been in the show biz for sometime and you are gradually raising your game in a very competitive industry, could you tell us how it all started?
My journey into show biz started way back. I remember going on a school trip to the theatre where I saw the musical “Aspects of Love” by Andrew Llyod Webber. It was something that really caught my fancy back in the days. To say the least, I was in awe of the performance and that was when I knew I wanted to be on stage. I was just ten years old at the time.
The search for Mo Abudu’s co-hosts was a tedious one, how was the experience for you?
Sincerely speaking, the experience was nerve-wracking. To be honest with you, it was also revealing and even challenging. I said this because people already knew who I was, so I felt I had to really prove myself as they were expecting so much from me. I also proved to myself that I am good at what I do. So, I would say it was an experience that I won’t forget in a hurry.
What brought about the tears when you were declared one of the winners?
I think all the tension I had felt all week just came gushing out. Nobody else knew what it was like all the week while the heat was on. I was the only one who felt it and I am sure other winners also had their stories to tell.
How has it been, working with Mo and Bolanle?
It has been great and fun. To me, Mo Abudu is one of the most hard working people I have ever met in life. Her work ethic is amazing and she has achieved so much. As we speak, I am trying to learn a lot from her because she’s one woaman who understands the job very well. Bolanle on the other hand is a sweetheart and I couldn’t think of a better person to share the stage with. I feel great.
What were your initial impressions of Mo Abudu prior to working with her and what do you think of her now?
Well, I don’t conclude on people so fast like that, whether you are good or otherwise, I tend to wait to meet the person before I make my mind up. I had actually interviewed her before on 53xtra and that was one of my best interviews.
How did you nail the Studio 53 Extra gig, for how long were you the presenter and how was the experience?
I had just moved back to Lagos and I was helping a friend out by interviewing people on the red carpet for an event. Another friend saw me and asked if I wanted to go to auditions that were being held by Mnet the following day. I went for them and the rest as they say is history. I was the lead anchor for 3 years and it was an amazing experience. I got to meet so many people and travel to so many different places.
What prompted the move from Studio 53 Extra, were you tired of the job or what?
I was not tired. I had told myself when I started working with Studio 53 extra that I would give myself 2-3yrs and after which I would move on and start another journey where I would gain new experiences.
If you could recollect, who was your first major interview?
Trust me. I remember. It was Sean Paul. I was so nervous.
Whose interview so far, have you enjoyed the most and why?
That would be Venus and Serena Williams, because I’m a big tennis fan, so it was really fun for me.
You also have a career in acting, how did it begin?
Yes, I’m a trained actress and that was what I was doing before I moved back home. Back then, I did a bit of television and mainly theatre.
You appear to be a versatile person, how do you manage to express it all?
I think there is a time for everything to be expressed, not necessarily at the same. So I’m just being me, so let’s just watch this space.
You’ve grown so much in the industry over the years, what were the hurdles you crossed at the early stage of your career?
When I left drama school, it took me a year to get my first gig and that was really difficult; having to tune my mind to a certain way of thinking. It was not easy doing all that. It was really hard going to auditions and getting rejected. You have to have a thick skin and be mentally prepared for that kind of thing.
What thrills you most about your profession?
I guess meeting new people does that for me. It is really exciting to meet new people every now and then.
Who is your role model on the job?
My role model as a whole, any day, is my Mum. She is a true champion and I really look up to her.
If you could take on someone else’s style of presentation, whose would it be?
I think Cat Deely on the show “So you think you can Dance.” She is a true natural presenter and I really love her style.
What are the best memories in your career?
Getting a part on Jacobs’ Cross was really memorable for me. I was such a great fan of the show and finally moving back home to Nigeria and being a part of the production is something I cherish a lot.
Favourite holiday spot?
I love Singapore.
What are your hobbies?
I love singing, writing poetry, going to the cinema, hanging out with my family. Those are things I love to do outside the set.
As an actress, what is your best TV show and movies?
I like the Good Wife, Jacobs Cross, Mad Men, Homeland and Game of Thrones.
What beauty product can’t you do without?
I can’t do without my eyeliner.
How would describe your style, what’s your fashion preference?
I am a casual chic. I like keeping it simple.
Favourite accessory?
I love earrings.
What can’t you do without having around you at any moment?
My laptop goes everywhere with me. I can’t do without it.
How do you relax?
I really love traveling. It soothes me.
Tell us about your educational background?
I attended the Lebanese Community School, Yaba, Lagos, for my primary school education. Then I proceeded to Headington Girls School, Oxford, UK, for my secondary education. I finished from the University of Bristol, UK, where I had a Bsc in Chemistry. And I have a Postgraduate degree in Drama at ALRA (Academy of Live and Recorded Arts), London.
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