Nollywood actor, Moshood Mayegun is a Crown Prince in the Mayegun royal family of Eti-Osa in Lagos State. He is a venture capitalist and producer of several movies like Forgiving Heart, Alaborun, LAALA, Kosalabaro, and the recent one Alaya Pupo.
In this interview with Damilola Fatunmise, Mayegun opens up on his growing up, dealing with female fans, and other issues concerning his career.
Enjoy!
Tell us about your background.
My name is Prince Mayegun Moshood of the Mayeigun royal family in Eti Osa, Lagos. Growing up was very difficult because my parents were separated and I was raised by my mother. It was very hard for her, so I had no choice than to go out and work at a very tender age. At 13, I was working at a bakery and also doing menial jobs to foot my school fees and also help my mother. Even as young as I was then, I believed my future was going to be bright. I started from the bottom, now I am here and still growing by God’s grace.
Can you recount your first experience as an actor?
I will say it was my experience on the set of Super Story in 2002. I injured my leg while acting in a particular scene and I expected the director to cut and allow me to relax for a while but unfortunately, the director did not cut. He finished the scene and then told me that the injury, though accidental, was perfect for the movie. I was given a break after the shoot. I felt bad as a new actor, but when the job came out I realized it was a perfect call.
Who is your role model in the movie industry?
Well, honestly I learn from all my predecessors and even the ones that came after me, but I can’t lie that I am a huge fan of Ibrahim Chatta. Tere is so much to emulate about his acting prowess and broad mind. To me, he’s the lord of acting.
What’s the title of the movie that brought you to the limelight?
I would say although, I have been known in a little way but the major one that sold me to the limelight is “Forgiven Heart”; a movie I produced in 2015. That movie was so emotional that my fans are asking me to reshoot it. I am giving it great consideration because the story is an eye-opener on so many issues in our environment.
You have over 20 movies to your credit, which one would you say is your biggest?
I just concluded a very big project which will blow my fans. It’s a very big project that featured so many A-list actors in the industry.
What’s the best thing you have ever achieved with being an actor?
Sincerely, being an actor is such a big blessing to me because it opens so many doors, but the major one I will never forget is that a fan gave me a plot of land in a highbrow area.
Any awards yet?
Yes, I won the Esteem Award and ODL Awards.
What has kept you going in the industry?
It’s my passion honestly. I am passionate about the job and I believe with time, huge rewards will follow as well.
What’s your philosophy about life?
Life is vanity upon vanity. Treat everyone equally and be content with whatever you have. These words are my watchwords.
What project are you working on at the moment?
I just concluded “Alaya Pupo” a few days ago. The movie is still being distributed, so I will still call it a project at hand.
Looking at the present situation in the country, how best do you think the movie industry can be a tool for correction?
The movie industry can contribute significantly by creating and producing morally responsible content that will educate and also sensitize the audience.
What do you have to tell your fans?
To all my fans, I love you all. The brand MM production will keep dishing out amazing content Insha Allah, Amin.
How do you cope with your female fans?
Honestly, it’s not been easy because you won’t want to be rude to them being your fans when they come at you with some attitude you can’t deal with.
Has being a public figure robbed off any of your old ways?
Not really, aside the fact that I am just more conscious of my environment so as not to disappoint those who look up to me.
Would you say this acting career is a plus to your life as a whole or not?
Ha! Honestly, it’s a big plus in all ramifications and I am grateful to God for this beautiful life experience. I get to meet and work with a lot of people that I grew up looking up to. I also enjoy so many goodies that I can’t even put into words at the moment.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years in this industry?
By God’s grace, I see a better Nollywood and obviously, we all are growing with it. So, I am very optimistic that in five years, I will be bigger and my name will be well-known globally in this craft.
Is there anything you think you can’t do as an actor?
Never say never. Even though I have my area of interest, all the same as an actor I believe I have to be an all-round actor.