Olamide Talks About Her Father's Influence on Her Career

Actress and filmmaker, Olamide Oladapo, has said that her father's legacy in the Nigerian film industry helps her career instead of threatening it.

Olamide, the daughter of veteran actor and filmmaker, Muyideen Oladapo, who is popularly known as Lala, shared that growing up with her father gave her a head start in acting, filmmaking, and storytelling. It also provided her with important mentorship.

Discussing her new project, ‘Chidera’, Olamide mentioned that it has strengthened her professional bond with her father, who produced and directed the film.

She shared, “He is very professional, dedicated and passionate about his craft. Working together on ‘Chidera’ was a beautiful opportunity to combine our different strengths, experiences and perspectives, especially learning from his wealth of experience as a veteran in the industry.”

Olamide pointed out that the project was not just about adding to her resume. She described it as a chance for both of them to create something meaningful and build a family legacy.

“For me, it was not just about making a film; it was about creating something meaningful together and building a legacy. I look forward to more opportunities to collaborate with him in the future. I love you, dad,” she added.

She explained that the movie looks into themes like dreams, humanity, family, relationships, and the surprising ways people’s lives connect.

“I want audiences to enjoy the story, laugh, reflect and also see themselves in the characters,” she said.

Even though she sees the benefits of being born into a filmmaking family, Olamide emphasized that her father’s name does not mean she has an easy path in the industry.

She stated, “While it has been a privilege and a valuable foundation, I have still had to put in the work, learn, unlearn, relearn and build my own identity within the industry.

“Being someone’s daughter can open a door, but it does not define your journey or sustain your growth.”

Olamide also credited her father for teaching her values like discipline, professionalism, and respect for the craft.

According to her, acting was a natural part of her upbringing because of her father’s career.