Deborah Olaniyi
Popular Yoruba actress, Funke Adesiyan who is known for her luxurious lifestyle and contested in the last general elections at the Oyo State House of Assembly, in this new interview with Punch Spice, says acting doesn’t pay her bills but other things do. Here’s her discussion with Punch Spice….
Background
I’m from Ibadan, Oyo State but I grew up in Lagos. My family is a nuclear one even though I was surrounded by cousins, nephews and other relatives. I had a fun childhood and I was more of a tomboy. I played a lot of football and I am still in love with the game.
Acting
I started acting professionally in 2003. My first experience as an actor was a TV series by Wale Adenuga Productions. The first film I acted in was produced by me in 2006. It was my first, not because I didn’t get offers to partake in films produced by other people, but because I had the resources to produce my own film. Since the storyline was a beautiful one, I didn’t want to give it out to someone else. So far, I have produced three movies. The last one was in 2010. I then took a break to focus on my business.
Nollywood
I have also taken part in some English TV series. I did some with Segun Arinze and Paul Obazele. I’m limited to one part of the industry. Oftentimes, I’m not available and that’s why I haven’t starred in more English movies. It is not because I have been tagged a ‘Yoruba actress.’ In fact, a lot of people think Yoruba actresses don’t speak good English.
Politics
I love what I experienced and I’m still in politics. I decided to go to my hometown in Kudeti, Ibadan to impact lives. I contested for a seat in the Oyo State House of Assembly. Even though I didn’t win the election, I feel delighted that I won the love of the people.
Current project
Acting does not pay my bills and I try to be as real as possible. I’m working on my business which involves importing and selling of bathroom accessories. I do souvenirs and I am into animal husbandry. Very soon, I will add cash crops.
Marriage
I’m in a relationship and I’m happy in it. A lot of people are married and are not happy while some are single and are happy. People shouldn’t attach so much importance to marriage. Life is too short not to be happy. You don’t have to be married because the society expects you to.
