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By Rita Okoye
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Ehiz Raphael is a talented and fast-rising Nollywood actor who is steadily capturing the admiration of Nigerian audiences. His standout performance in Ghetto Dad earned him widespread acclaim and positioned him as one to watch in the industry.
In this interview with Sunday Sun, the actor reflects on the inspiration behind his compelling role, speaks about his dream characters, and explains his transition from civil engineering to a career in entertainment.
Enjoy!
You recently delivered a remarkable performance as a ghetto boy in your latest film. What initially attracted you to the role?
What actually attracted me to the role is the thought process of these individuals, how they think, act, and perceive life, etc.
How did you prepare mentally and physically to convincingly portray a character from the streets?
We see these people every day, and as an actor, I have been able to pick up a thing or two just seeing them alone.
Did you spend time observing or interacting with people who live that reality to understand the character better?
Yes, I have had to go to the slums to watch time, vibe with them, drink with them, and make them happy enough to display some of these things and I pick a thing or two from there.
What was the most challenging part of playing a ghetto boy in the film?
Initially when I played ghetto boy in my previous project my only struggle was their slangs, language accent. But over time I have overcome that challenge.
As someone who is also a model, how different is it stepping into gritty roles compared to the world of fashion?
For me, both worlds in terms of fashion are perpendicular to each other, meaning their dress sends a stylish fashion statement. (With a little brush up)
Did this role push you outside your comfort zone in any way? If yes, how?
Yes, it did – that’s because I was used to playing the regular fine boy, married man roles but having to do this gritty role made me realize I can be more than I think; so yeah it was a good push.
You are also an entertainment manager; can you shed more light on this?
Apparently, my job as an entertainment manager is bringing entertainment to lounges, clubs, and events, including weddings.
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At what point did you realize acting was something you wanted to pursue seriously?
Personally, I have always admired the craft since I was seven years old. I remember how I used to trouble my mom that I’d like to be an actor but my dad wouldn’t let me. By profession I am a certified civil engineer but after certification, I chose my purpose (acting).
As a fast-rising actor in Nollywood, what experiences so far have shaped your journey the most?
Too many to mention because every time on set gives me new experiences, especially because I meet new actors who are truly inspiring.
What kind of roles are you most passionate about exploring in the future?
A grandfather (actual grandfather).
What can make you reject a movie role?
If the role goes against my belief system.
Who are some actors or filmmakers in Nollywood or globally that inspire your craft?
Kelvin Hart, Will Smith, Robert Downey, Russell Hornsby, Kunle Afolayan, and many others.
Would you consider marrying a colleague from the entertainment industry?
Yes, I would actually because they alone can understand how the system works.
What’s your ideal type of woman?
I would rather not say.
What advice would you give to young talents who want to break into acting but don’t know where to start?
I would say find a character line that is not too saturated in the industry and build on it because apparently, we have so many characters that a lot of people tend not to do, not because they can’t do it, but because it’s not a comfortable character role. So, yeah find and film yourself everytime, that way you see your lapses and strengths!
Looking back at your journey so far, what moment would you describe as your breakthrough?
The year 2024 when I did a job that I didn’t know I would be seen.
