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By Rita Okoye
Just recently, Nollywood actress and filmmaker, Temidayo Babatunde marked her birthday, drawing warm tributes from colleagues across the industry.
In this interview with Saturday Sun, she reflects on the significance of her new age, the lessons life has taught her, her experience navigating fame, and other issues shaping her career.
Enjoy!
How does it feel stepping into a new year with another birthday in the spotlight?
I must sincerely say stepping into a new year with another birthday in the spotlight feels humbling and deeply reflective. It reminds me how far I’ve come, not just in my career but as a person. The love and expectations from my fans around the world make the moment even more meaningful. Abovee all, it’s a quiet celebration of growth, lessons learned, and the journey ahead.
What was the most surprising gift you received this year?
Honestly, I didn’t receive any gift this year that truly caught me by surprise. But what actually stood out instead were the heartfelt messages and quiet gestures that didn’t come wrapped in boxes.
At this new age, do you feel more powerful, wiser, or just sexier?
At this new age, I definitely feel wiser, and God’s wisdom has brought its own kind of power within me. Experience has also taught me when to speak, when to move, and when to let things be. And yes, confidence does make me feel a little sexier too. It’s less about looks and more about owning who I’ve become.
Has turning a year older changed your priorities in life or career?
Turning a year older has definitely refined my priorities in both life and career. I’m more intentional about the projects I take on and the energy I give out. Peace, purpose, and impact matter more to me now than constant visibility. I value balance and longevity over rushing for quick wins. This new age has taught me that growth is just as important as success.
Which role challenged you the most emotionally and why?
Hmm, the role that challenged me the most emotionally was the one I filmed in Ondo. We shot at a location we later realised we weren’t supposed to use, which added an unexpected layer of tension. After filming, traditional rituals had to be performed for me to restore balance and respect the space. I was also required to dance with the masquerades, which was an intense and deeply symbolic experience. The entire experience pushed me emotionally and spiritually in ways no role ever had.
Looking back, is there a career decision you’re most proud of?
The career I’m most proud of was choosing growth over comfort. I took risks that didn’t always make sense to everyone but felt right to me. Those choices shaped my craft and strengthened my resilience. They taught me to trust my instincts even when the outcome was uncertain. In the end, that courage defined my journey more than any single.
How do you stay grounded amid fame, pressure, and public expectations?
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I stay grounded by staying connected to my roots and the people who knew me before the spotlight. Faith, quiet moments, and self-reflection help me keep things in perspective. I’ve learned to separate who I am from how I’m perceived. Setting boundaries protects my peace in a very demanding space. At the end of the day, I remind myself that fame is a platform, not my identity.
What part of your personality do fans rarely get to see on screen?
The part of my personality fans rarely get to see is who I am when the cameras are off. Once I’m on set, I completely transform into the character I’m meant to portray. That switch often hides my quieter, more reflective side. Off-screen, I’m much more reserved and intentional. Acting allows me to disappear, but it also means parts of the real me stay private.
How do you balance your personal life with the demands of acting?
Balancing personal life with acting is a constant practice of setting boundaries. I make it a priority to carve out time for family, friends, and myself, no matter how busy the schedule gets. Planning and discipline help me stay present both on set and off. I’ve learned that saying “no” is just as important as saying “yes” to opportunities. Ultimately, protecting my personal life keeps me grounded and fuels my creativity.
Which of your movies best represents who you are right now?
The movie that best represents who I am right now is IPA: Force. It reflects my growth, resilience, and the kind of bold choices I’m embracing in my career. The role challenged me and pushed me beyond my comfort zone, much like I strive to do in real life. It captures both my strength and vulnerability in a way that feels authentic. Watching it now, I see a reflection of the person and artist I’ve become
What excites you most about the future of Nollywood?
What excites me most about the future of Nollywood is its limitless potential on the global stage. The industry is evolving with better production quality, compelling stories, and fresh talent every day. There’s a growing respect for our films internationally, which opens doors for collaboration and recognition. I’m inspired by how much creativity and innovation are thriving here. The future feels bold, dynamic, and full of opportunities for every storyteller.
Has love or heartbreak ever influenced your performances?
Love and heartbreak have definitely influenced my performances in subtle but powerful ways. Those experiences deepen my emotional range and help me connect more honestly with certain roles. Pain teaches you vulnerability, while love teaches you softness, and both are essential in acting. I often draw from real emotions, even when the story is fictional. They’ve helped me bring more truth and depth to my characters.
What’s one misconception people have about you?
One misconception people often have about me is that I’m always confident and unshakable. In reality, I have my doubts and insecurities like anyone else. What people see on screen or in public is often just a curated version of myself. Behind the scenes, I work hard to grow, learn, and stay grounded. That balance between perception and reality is something I navigate every day.
If you could celebrate this year’s birthday with any filmmaker in the world, who would it be and why?
I don’t really have a wish to celebrate my birthday with any particular filmmaker or movie star. For me, birthdays are more about meaningful connections than star-studded moments. I prefer to spend the day with people who truly know and support me. It’s the personal moments that make the celebration memorable. Fame and industry names don’t add to the joy in the way genuine presence does.
As you add another year, what legacy do you hope to build in the industry?
As I add another year, I hope to build a legacy of authenticity and excellence in the industry. I want to be remembered for telling stories that resonate and inspire. Beyond awards or fame, I hope my work encourages others to pursue their craft fearlessly. I also aim to mentor and uplift emerging talent along the way. Ultimately, I want my legacy to reflect passion, growth, and meaningful impact.
What advice would you give young actresses who look up to you?
My advice to young actresses would be to stay patient and trust the process. Focus on honing your craft, not just chasing fame. Surround yourself with people who genuinely support and challenge you. Learn to handle rejection and criticism without losing your passion. Above all, stay true to yours. Authenticityity is what lasts in this industry.
