By Christian Agadibe
Ugo Doris is a Nollywood actress renowned for her roles as a mother and queen in her films. She has appeared in over 100 movies. In this interview with Entertainer, the Ebonyi State-born actress discusses her journey to stardom, the rising number of deaths in the movie industry, and other aspects of her career.
What do you have to say about Mr. Ibu, the late popular actor?
Unfortunately, we had to lose him. We cannot question God; this is the lane we all have to follow. I have done several jobs with him. One intriguing part of him that I love so much is that whenever you were on set with him he would not eat alone. He believed that the crew was the strength of the set and should not be left out. The day I heard about his illness, I didn’t know what to do because he was in Lagos and we were in Enugu. It was not an easy thing, but I have to thank God for everything.
What do you have to say about the prevalent decline of our old actors in the industry?
Our legends are dying off and the people are not doing much to help out. If an NGO is set up to take care of ageing or sick actors, it would be appreciated because we are getting to that age when we would not be able to be as vigorous as we are now. We are in the kind of profession where people don’t believe it when you call asking for help until the person is down and it’s too late. Because of the way we live in the movies, it creates this notion that is how we live in the real world, but it is not so. Due to easy recognition and what people would say most actors spend their time inside, to avoid being judged.
Do you think family is a key factor in the fast aging of actors?
One of the pressures that actors face is from the family, they believe since you’re a popular person you must have a limitless supply of income. They do not understand that a day or two outside the set means an immediate decline in any income. We believe there would come a time when there could be an increase in income flow so that there would be some sort of retirement plan such as a business startup or any establishment. This is because nobody would care enough to check up or listen to you until you’re dead.
What is the best way to remember an actor?
The best way to remember an actor is always on the screen of a television, most people recognize us from our movies.
How does the death of an actor psychologically impact the family members?
Family members of the deceased may be affected psychologically by the death of their loved one, especially when there’s a constant reminder of them everywhere in the movies and on the internet.
When you see past icons on the television, what comes to your mind?
As someone in the movie industry, I love seeing our past legends on the screen, because it fills me with hope and joy that one day when I am no more, people will also remember me through my movies for as long as possible.
Recently, there have been reports of actors who are living in penury. How can this problem be solved?
We need to care more about the people in this profession. At least once in a while call them on the phone, to check up on them and send them a token. In the worst case scenario, there are a few who are reportedly homeless. It would not be bad if some plans were made by the ones who are doing better financially to ensure the sustenance of the few living in lack.
What role can the government play in ensuring the sustenance of these legends who entertain us?
Only if the government will look into the industry to ascertain how we are doing. Every movie is sponsored by individuals never the government or companies. However, if the government could key into the issue of refurbishment and think of incorporating the industry into their payroll or establishment of gratuity for the entertainers it would go a long way in sustaining the few icons left behind.
What are you currently working on?
I am currently working on a new movie. Hopefully, by next month I will be starting a new job but for the past few weeks, I took time out to take care of myself and rejuvenate before getting back on set. I encourage other actors to take better care of themselves and their health. Living and breathing acting is not the way to go; rather there should be some sort of balance between our wellbeing and our career.
Have you ever had a bad experience on set?
I once had an accident on set. I was working with a machine and I mistakenly touched the throttle and the motorcycle fell on my leg causing severe injury. The aftermath of the accident was severe and I was hospitalized. Nevertheless, I had to carry on with the shooting because the scene of the accident was my first appearance in the movie.
How did acting begin for you?
From childhood, I always had a dream and hunger for acting. My elder siblings always called me to entertain them. Also, I have always heard that I had this penchant for mimicking people which earned me the name “typewriter” when I was younger.
Can you mention some of the movies you were featured in?
My movies include Nwanyi Abakiliki, Nwanyi Ebonyi, Ada Abakiliki, etc
What do you dislike about the industry?
One of the things I don’t like about the industry is somebody underrating someone else in terms of seniority. It’s good to carry everyone along both cast and crew, you never can tell who you will meet where and when. You can’t just see someone on set and after profiling the person without knowing the whole story.
Do you think the pressure of social life pushes most actresses to go under the knife for body enhancement?
The thing is, if you do not have confidence in yourself that’s when you think about what to do to gain the confidence. Using myself as an example, I’m very confident and it can be seen in my gait and speech. I do not need any validation from anyone. So it all depends on how people see themselves.
What’s your advice to upcoming actors/actresses?
To the younger ones, it depends on why you’re here. If you’re here because you want to gain attention from men it is up to you but if you’re here because you have a purpose and want to do something meaningful in life, then it’s up to you too.