Gabriel Afolayan urges actors to focus on skill, not approval

Popular actor and singer, Gabriel Afolayan, has said that Yoruba-language films are getting more recognition due to hard work and dedication in the industry.

Reacting to how Yoruba films are becoming more visible, he said this growth is not surprising. He noted that the consistent effort in the industry is finally paying off.

"There is nothing strange about it because we have put in the work. If one works hard, one should get the dividends for it. If we are seeing the feedback, it’s worth it. So there is nothing strange about it because we have put in the work," he said.

Afolayan also talked about his nickname, Gabbylucciii. He explained that it shows who he is and what he wants to achieve.

"Lucci means leader, Luciano, boss…someone at the top. And Gabby is coined from my name, Gabriel," he explained.

When discussing his toughest roles, Afolayan mentioned that each character brings its own challenges.

"All the roles stretch me. Maybe I don’t take things to heart too much. I see it for what it is and do it for what it should be. I am a student of the art and I am still learning as well, so for me everything is quite challenging. Different roles have different landscapes of approach. The thoughts, the mindset, the research; they are always on different levels. So you can’t really say this is above the other. I put myself through everything I have to go through to achieve every role," he said.

On the topic of versatility in acting, he encouraged creatives to focus on mastering their craft instead of seeking validation from others.

"Just love what you do, you can’t be scheming. Understand what you are supposed to do and do it. Let the audience give you the feedback. Yours is to get into the character, give it what it needs and let the audience feed you back on that," he added.