By Christy Anyanwu
Peter Boyo is an actor, producer, model, trend-setter and entrepreneur.
In this interview with Sunday Sun, he talked about himself as an entertainer.
How would you describe yourself?
I am Peter Armand Boyo, someone who has worked in what he calls “Nolly-Ghally-Hollywood”.
As a kid he discovered his passion for the performing arts in Grandchester, Cambridge.
His educational background includes a B.A. in Cinematography, New York. His career spans years in the film industry and a modelling career that began in New York. Peter is an award-winning producer, actor, model and filmmaker with effortless style and innovation in a super-cool, edgy way. Simply put, he is a trendsetter with a unique style, which inspires, entertains and empowers you to aspire to become self-sufficient, live smarter and be healthier. Peter Armand Boyo was inducted as Ambassador for Peace by the United Peace Federation to celebrate his accomplishments and for his meritorious service to our nation and humanity, earning him the title of Ambassador. His campaign, Say-No-To-Modern-Day Slavery, has earned him numerous accolades. He is the founder of Derago Rainbow Chocolate Cupcakes Foundation, an organisation that brings smiles to kids as well as raises awareness on youth-related issues. Peter Armand Boyo has also developed mentorship, coaching and performance arts programmes. He is the founder of Awesome State, a performing arts group for young talents. He is a founding member of Josedna Afrotainment, Diamond Pictures Limited, Nollywood Cinemas and DLOP Digital Learning Online Programs. His television and film credits include: The Siege, Brooklyn Heights, Tarima, Mingle Reality TV show, Eye on Africa, African Music Video Box, Children’s Time, Glo Village Dance, Glo Nu Tariff, Glo Hi Flyer, Spirit of the Assassin, Destitute, From Riches to Rags, Reflection, Raising the Heights, Callgirl, What If, and The Night of Judgment. Others are Spirit of the Jungle, Rough Chase, Enigmatique, Shante, and more.
You studied film, video and cinematography abroad in the days when it wasn’t attractive because parents preferred their wards to study medicine, law, accountancy, etc. What propelled your decision?
I actually studied architecture first, then I switched to business administration and, after completing my studies, I went back and studied cinematography at the University of New York. I was never pressured into any career choices, but I chose that path because, in the beginning, I was unsure of what I really wanted to do. Everyone thought I was going to be a medical doctor or an artist, but I chose different paths. I still have an interest and study medical and forensic science as a hobby.
What was your parents, friends and loved ones’ perception about your career choice?
They never had a problem with my career choice because I’m multifaceted and I do a lot of things. So, it was easy for me. I actually have various careers that I can fall back on, if need be. I am thankful for the support and encouragement from my loved ones and also, sometimes, they don’t see me as a celebrity or star, they just see me as for who I am.
How was life as a model, was it runway or photography modelling? What were some of the most memorable moments as a model?
I actually started modelling professionally when I was about 17 and I started in Philadelphia with John Casablanca’s modelling school. When I went professional, I found it very difficult to get any jobs because they said, and I quote, “Black don’t sell.” So, I started at a time when, if you went for a job, there would be 100 black people and one white person and the white person would get the job; but, that being said, we were the pioneers. And when the rappers and music people started getting their own brands, we found out that, yes, black does really sell. So, I did a lot of print and runway mostly.
How did your journey into acting start and what are the films you have featured in?
I started acting when I was six years old in Grandchester, Cambridge, and I think I always had it in me because it comes naturally to me. My mum acts, my oldest siblings are in entertainment somehow. I remember as a little kid gathering my friends and putting up pillows behind the couch. I would hide and then come out and perform and go hide behind the couch. So, I started directing, but I didn’t even know I was directing, and we would act and they would perform for the family. It has always been embedded in me. I have done stage, theatre, dance, opera, I’ve done it all. It is hard to list the films, but notably, I have acted in films with Denzel Washington, Bruce Willis, and films in Nigeria, Ghana and Dubai.
As an expert in cinematography, what’s your take on cinemas in Nigeria. Do we really have enough?
I believe the cinema culture has really evolved in Nigeria. Gone are the days when audiences just sat at home and watched TV or discs or DVDs or whatever. Now the cinema culture is back; people get dressed, go out on dates, go out with friends to the cinema and the films are of better quality, better standard. About 10 years ago, we started Nollywood Cinemas, which was focused on bringing cinemas to your neighborhoods, and the reception was mixed because people said, “Well, I can watch these movies at home, why would I go to the cinema and pay?” But this ideology has changed over the years. I believe the cinema culture is really growing and continuing to grow, as long as we churn out beautiful films for people to watch, although, with the economy in Nigeria now, it makes it difficult to watch films at the cinema because the price is quite expensive.
Tell us about your growing up, how was life then? What are some of the memories you still uphold?
I am thankful that I grew up in what you call a privileged or pedigree upbringing, and it paved the way for who I am today. One of my memories that still stands out is the first time I remember acting in front of an audience. That was in Grandchester and I was supposed to faint. I fell straight back and hit my head on the sand and passed out for a minute, and everyone applauded, thinking I was a very good actor; but when I grew up I realized that I actually passed out. Another fond memory is travelling around with my parents to different parts of the world by boat. I don’t remember much, but I still see pictures and they tell me about it. So, that was a good memory.
What was the reaction of your loved ones when you informed them about your passion to become an actor?
I have always been an actor. So, it was no surprise to anyone when I chose to become a professional actor. I was encouraged by all, especially my older brother, Andy Boyo, who created Diamond Pictures especially for me. That was the icing on the cake and the stamp of approval.
As a model, influencer, actor and entrepreneur, which of these is the most tasking to you?
I think the most tasking is being an entrepreneur. Because of my humanity and background, I always want to give more than I take and it has affected me in my entrepreneurship as a flaw. I tend to do things for free in terms of service and products, as well as not going after people when they owe and this has affected my entrepreneurship. I admit to that flaw.