I was restricted to side chick roles cause of my look – Bolaji Ogunmola

Nollywood actress Bolaji Ogunmola has opened up about the struggles she encountered at the beginning of her acting career, revealing that her dark complexion and body shape often led to her being typecast in limited roles

Speaking during an interview with content creator Joseph Onaolapo, the actress said filmmakers once tried to confine her to “side chick” characters because she was dark-skinned and curvy at a time when light-skinned actresses were dominating the industry.

“They wanted to box me in. I am dark-skinned, and during that period, light-skinned actresses were the trend. They also felt because I was curvy, I should only play certain kinds of roles,” she said.

Ogunmola, who previously took part in the Next Movie Star reality show but failed to reach the final stage, described her journey in Nollywood as challenging but rewarding because she remained persistent.

“My journey has been crazy, but I stayed consistent,” she stated.

The actress also explained why she ventured into business alongside acting, stressing that she never saw herself working a regular office job.

“I wanted my life to count for something. Sitting at home has never been my style, and I knew from the start that 9–5 wasn’t for me. I respect people who do it, but I’ve always had a business mindset,” she added.