Nollywood actor Chimezie Imo is baring it all and getting real about how his outspoken nature has shaped his journey in the movie industry—and not always in the ways you’d expect.
In a candid interview with Chude, Chimezie reflected on how standing up for others on set often earns him a reputation that he didn’t sign up for. “I’m very vocal,” he admitted. “So I always feel like people think I’m a troublemaker. I stand up for others, and I think I need to stop that because it has caused me trouble.”
The actor, known for his riveting roles and emotional range, shared a personal story that reveals the complexity of his professional relationships. He recalled how a director from MTV Shuga once threatened to walk off the show if he wasn’t part of the cast.
“I remember showing up on set and everyone was shocked. I often think people see me as problematic, so when I hear people saying good things about me, it always surprises me.”
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Not Afraid to Speak Up—for the Voiceless
Chimezie’s sense of justice doesn’t stop with just himself. He explained how he regularly steps in when he notices unfair treatment on set—even if it has nothing to do with him directly.
“If I’m the lead and the sub-lead is getting less food than I am, I’ll ask why.”
For him, silence isn’t an option—especially when he sees people being disrespected simply because they don’t have the same influence or voice on set. But he admits that this moral compass hasn’t always worked in his favor.
“It has backfired a lot of times… I may not be the producer’s favorite, but I’m definitely the director’s favorite.”
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Staying True, Even If It Hurts
Despite the personal cost, Chimezie Imo remains grounded in his values. While he acknowledges that his outspokenness may have cost him roles or favor in certain circles, it’s also won him deep respect from others behind the camera—particularly directors who value his integrity.
In an industry often marred by silent hierarchies and power plays, Chimezie stands as a refreshing voice for fairness and authenticity. Whether it wins him points with producers or not, one thing’s clear: he’s not changing who he is for applause.
And perhaps that’s exactly what makes him stand out.
