December 23, (THEWILL) – Nollywood actress and filmmaker, Toyin Abraham, has revealed her reason to cast veteran actor, Emeka Ike, in her latest film, Malaika, despite his 13-year break from acting.
The 41-year-old actress articulated that Emeka deserved a second chance, following a challenging marriage that had a detrimental effect on his career.
Toyin, who produced the film, revealed that she cast the actor because of his persona.
She said, “I needed a calm man with that look, that is a lover-boy, that would be between the wife and the daughter, and the first person I thought was Emeka Ike. I’ve been talking to Uncle Emeka since last year; I know he has been off for a long time, and everything we heard then, obviously, I was not as big as this, so I sent him a message. My manager Otunba Seun got his number for me, and I said come back, and he said, ‘What if.., after everything that happened?’ and I said, ‘Don’t worry, even if you did it you have suffered enough, 13 years, it’s okay, it’s okay.
“I am not saying you did; I wasn’t there, but even if you did, it’s okay; 13 years is a long time. I don’t mind taking risks; it doesn’t matter because I see you in this role. I feel everybody deserves a second chance. It’s okay.”
Renowned actors including Odunlade Adekola, Carter Efe, Uzo Arukwe, Muyiwa Ademola, Ibrahim Chatta, Abike Shugaa, Taiwo Ajai Lycett and Ugandan entertainer, Anne Kansiime, graced the screen in this cinematic venture.
The actress disclosed that 60% of the film, premiering in Lagos over the weekend, mirrors her personal journey, delving into aspects such as embracing motherhood at the age of 39.
Emeka Ike takes on the role of Toyin’s on-screen husband.
About the Author
