Nollywood actor Uzor Arukwe has shared how his role as Odogwu in the movie Love in Every Word changed his life. He said it brought him more money and brand deals. But he is worried that producers want him to keep playing similar characters.
Arukwe talked about this during an episode of CreativiTea. The show is hosted by Lynda Aguocha and was posted on Thursday.
“It changed my life, I can’t even lie. More money started coming, a lot more brand deals, and then all the producers in Nollywood now want to kill me with Odogwu character,” he said.
He does not want to be limited to one type of role. He believes that as an actor, he should have the chance to play different characters.
“I’m an actor through and through. So you can’t put me in a box. It’s not even possible,” he said.
Arukwe mentioned that producers often want him to play the character again because they believe it will be successful. He urged them to take risks on other characters too.
“The same way someone took a chance on that character, you can also create another character and give it to me, and God can breathe upon it, and then it would do well in itself as well,” he said.
He also pointed to Hollywood, where some actors are known for specific roles like police chiefs or villains. He wants the chance to play different characters, including interesting Igbo roles.
The actor recognized that Odogwu has become known for certain mannerisms that producers want him to repeat. He added that he can adjust how he plays the character to fit different stories.
“You can tone him down. You can push him up, but there’s a mannerism that he has that a lot of people want,” he said.
Even though he sees the financial benefits of the role, Arukwe is firm that he will not let it limit his career.
“I mean, it’s bringing money, but I will not be typecast. Never. I will not be put in a box,” he said.
Love in Every Word is produced and directed by Omoni Oboli. It premiered on YouTube on March 7, 2025, and quickly became very popular.
The romantic drama got more than two million views in just 24 hours and over 11 million views in its first week.
Arukwe plays Obiora, also known as Odogwu Paranran, a rich and confident Igbo businessman who wants to marry Chioma. Chioma is played by Bamike “Bam Bam” Olawunmi-Adenibuyan.
Known for his fancy gifts and bold love declarations, Odogwu captured the audience's attention with his unique accent and mannerisms.
Arukwe’s performance made the character a hit on social media and sparked talks about love, generosity, and what people expect from men in relationships.
By October 2026, the film reached over 34 million views on YouTube. Its popularity was boosted by social media chats and the spread of catchphrases linked to Arukwe’s character.
The success of the film also led to a sequel, Love in Every Word: The Wedding, which was released in October 2025.
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