Veteran Nollywood actor Bob-Manuel Udokwu has shared his perspective on why many male actors in the Nigerian film industry appear to struggle more financially than their female counterparts, attributing it to the weight of family and personal responsibilities.
Speaking during a recent interview with Udala, the actor argued that the issue is not necessarily because Nollywood fails to pay its stars adequately, but because male actors often shoulder greater financial obligations that quickly consume their earnings.
According to Udokwu, women generally have fewer financial pressures than men, making it easier for many actresses to build and maintain wealth.
"Life is generally easier for women than it is for men. It's not that Nollywood doesn't pay, but actors have a lot of bills to settle."
The veteran actor also reflected on the public reaction when the late comic actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, appealed for financial assistance during his health crisis before his death.
Udokwu said he was deeply hurt by comments from some Nigerians on social media who questioned how the late actor had spent the money he earned throughout his successful career in Nollywood.
He stressed that many critics failed to understand the financial realities and personal responsibilities that actors face behind the scenes, noting that movie earnings alone are often insufficient to guarantee long-term financial security.
"It pained me when John Okafor fell ill before he eventually passed away. While we were trying to raise funds for his treatment, some people on social media kept asking, 'Where is all the money he made from acting?'"
He added:
"They didn't understand the realities of the profession. I didn't even know he had married more than one wife then."
Udokwu's comments have reignited conversations about financial planning, welfare, and the economic realities faced by entertainers in Nigeria, particularly after retirement or during periods of ill health. His remarks also highlight the challenges many actors face in balancing professional success with growing family and personal responsibilities.