A Family Legacy Celebrated
Femi Adebayo’s critically acclaimed series Seven Doors emerged as one of the night’s biggest winners at the AMVCA, taking home three major awards: Best Lead Actor (Femi Adebayo), Best Lead Actress (Chioma Chukwuka), and Best Score/Music (Tolu Obanro).
Shortly after the awards, Femi posted a video on Facebook showing him kneeling in front of his father, who held the AMVCA trophies while offering prayers for his son’s continued success. The touching clip struck a chord with fans, who praised Femi’s humility and reverence for his roots.
In the caption accompanying the video, Femi wrote:
“There are moments awards can’t measure—like this one. Humbled beyond words as my father, Alhaji Adebayo Salami, and my dear mothers poured prayers over me today. Seven Doors may have triumphed at #AMVCA2025, but the true foundation of everything I am… is right here. Their sacrifices, their prayers, their love—without them, there is no me. This win is ours.”
A Praise-Worthy Project—and a Quiet Arrival
Despite limited pre-release promotion, Seven Doors made an outsized impact at the AMVCA. The historical drama, directed by Femi Adebayo alongside Adebayo Tijani and Tope Adebayo, had received 11 nominations and drew praise for its rich storytelling, nuanced performances, and cultural depth.
The story centers around King Adedunjoye, a reluctant monarch tormented by a generational curse. To lift it, he must marry six more wives—unlocking seven metaphorical doors—despite his enduring love for his only wife, Amaka. The narrative is a blend of myth, tradition, and personal sacrifice, set against a backdrop of royal obligation.
A Tinge of Criticism Sparks Public Response
While the majority of responses were celebratory, one critique stirred conversation online. A social media user, tweeting under the handle #OriretanHonour, congratulated Adebayo but questioned his recurring decision to cast his father in his productions.
“Femi Adebayo, the way your Seven Doors is bagging awards without promo needs to be studied. Jagun Jagun was greatly promoted but Seven Doors just suddenly popped up, took everyone unaware yet is the biggest. Good job but limit featuring your dad always not to ruin your work. Congrats but be wise,” the tweet read.
Femi responded with measured clarity, defending both his artistic choices and the legacy behind them.
“I appreciate the love and the concern. But let me gently say, success doesn’t have to wear noise all the time. Seven Doors has won and will keep winning because it is built on solid storytelling, not just hype.
As for featuring my dad, Dr. Adebayo Salami (PhD), a living legend—if having a master of the craft in my work ‘ruins’ it for you, maybe the problem isn’t the casting, it’s your understanding of legacy and excellence. Oh yeah, let me add, na God dey promote, and when grace speaks, even silence trends. Thanks for the congrats.”
Honoring Legacy, Embracing Excellence
Femi Adebayo’s response resonated with fans who view his father not only as a legend but also as a bridge between generations in Nigerian cinema. The ongoing conversation around Seven Doors—from its understated rollout to its critical acclaim—highlights a deeper discussion about legacy, innovation, and how cultural storytelling continues to evolve in Nollywood.
In the end, while trophies may decorate shelves, the values passed from one generation to the next remain the most enduring reward.