NEWS
Pete Edochie Declares Himself Bigger Than Nollywood Colleagues, Challenges Rivals to Speak Up
Veteran Nollywood actor, Pete Edochie, has stirred reactions after boldly declaring that he considers himself bigger than all his colleagues in the Nigerian film industry.
The respected thespian made the statement while reflecting on his decades-long career, his status in Nollywood and claims by some actors regarding their seniority and achievements in the industry.
Edochie’s comments come amid previous remarks by fellow veteran actor, Yemi Solade, who claimed that he began his acting career before the celebrated movie star.
Solade had acknowledged that Edochie was older than him but maintained that he started acting before the veteran actor.
The issue of seniority in Nollywood has remained a subject of discussion over the years, particularly among actors whose careers date back to the early days of Nigerian television and cinema.
However, speaking during an appearance on comedian Isbae U’s online show, Curiosity Made Me Ask, Edochie was asked to identify his favourite actor among his colleagues.
Rather than single out one person, the veteran actor gave an emphatic response, suggesting that he sees himself as occupying a different level from his peers.
According to Edochie, he could not name a favourite because he considers himself bigger than all of them.
The veteran actor also addressed claims from individuals who have publicly suggested that they are older or more established than him in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Edochie said he had deliberately chosen not to engage in arguments over such claims, noting that he had never considered it necessary to respond to people who compare their careers with his.
He said, “People have been writing that they are older than me in the industry, but I don’t respond.
“Whoever said they are of the same level with me should come out and say it.”
His remarks have added another layer to the longstanding conversation about seniority, influence and legacy among Nigeria’s veteran actors.
Edochie, who has enjoyed a career spanning several decades, is widely recognised for his commanding screen presence and roles in numerous Nollywood productions.
Speaking further about his status as a veteran actor, Edochie also reacted to the description of him as a “legend.”
The actor admitted that he was not entirely certain about what people mean when they use the term, but said he was grateful for the recognition and appreciation he has received from audiences and colleagues.
He stated, “I don’t know the definition of people’s legend, but I’m glad to be celebrated.”
Beyond his acting career, Edochie revealed that he had already established himself professionally before eventually venturing into acting.
The actor explained that his career did not begin with Nollywood, adding that he had attained a professional position before joining the acting profession.
He further disclosed that he eventually retired from his previous career as a Director of Programmes.
His revelation offers further insight into the journey that preceded his emergence as one of Nigeria’s most recognisable veteran actors, whose name has become closely associated with the
development and growth of Nollywood.