Young, bold, and unstoppable: The fresh faces of Nollywood
Quick Read
With every role, they breathe new life into storytelling, setting screens ablaze and hearts alight. It’s high time they received their well-deserved flowers and standing ovation.
By Aderinola Abimbola
The Nollywood scene is experiencing a vibrant renaissance, ushered in by a dazzling wave of fresh faces and electrifying talent. These Gen Z Nigerian actors are not just stepping into the spotlight — they are owning it with charisma, depth, and an irresistible screen presence that commands attention. With every role, they breathe new life into storytelling, setting screens ablaze and hearts alight. It’s high time they received their well-deserved flowers and standing ovation. Here’s a spotlight on some of the luminous new stars redefining the Nollywood narrative:
1. Genoveva Umeh
Popular for her role in movies like ‘Blood Sisters’ and ‘Far from home,’ the British-Nigerian actress makes it clear that she is here to stay. The talented Nollywood actress believes that vulnerability is power.
“I want to tell stories that reflect my generation’s reality” she once said in an interview.
2. Chimezie Imo
Among the rising stars of the new Nollywood wave, Chimezie Imo shines brightly as a standout talent. Known for his gripping role in Shanty Town and his deeply moving performance in The Wait, Imo has carved a niche for himself as a master of emotion. With each appearance, he brings raw intensity and nuance to the screen, consistently delivering performances that linger long after the credits roll.
3. Efe Irele
This award winning Nollywood actress has won the hearts of many Nigerians while delivering stellar performances. With an unmatched screen presence, Efe Irele shows that she is not slowing down soon.
4. Mike Afolarin
This Far From Home star captured hearts with his unforgettable portrayal of Ishaya and continued to impress in his recent film, A Lagos Love Story. With a compelling blend of action, romance, and emotional vulnerability, he effortlessly showcases his range and has already been hailed as Nollywood’s next breakout lead.
“I want to play roles that reflect who we are as young Nigerians — messy, brave, and trying,” the 26-year-old once shared in an interview, offering a glimpse into the authenticity he brings to every role.
5. Tomi Ojo
At just 23, this rising Nollywood actress is breaking boundaries and capturing international attention across social media and streaming platforms. With standout roles in Far From Home, Leaked, and Diiche, she has quickly become known for delivering powerful performances marked by strength, vulnerability, and raw emotion.
6. Gbubemi Ejeye
This Gen ZNollywood star brings a playful energy and youthful sass to roles.
“I love telling stories that feel like our real lives, Instagram, heartbreak, everything.” she once said while speaking about her fast rising acting career.
7. Susan Pwajok
Susan Pwajok is a 21-year-old rising Gen Z star making waves with her standout roles in The Johnsons, Shuga Naija, and Desperate Housewives Africa. Beyond her impressive acting portfolio, Susan also hosts her own talk show, Surviving Lagos, where she explores life, identity, and the unique experiences of her generation. Passionate about the power and potential of Gen Z, she proudly champions their voice and impact.
“We’re not just pretty faces on screen, we’re thinkers, creators, and disruptors,” Susan once remarked, speaking boldly about the brilliance of her peers.
8. Emeka Nwagbaraocha
Emeka, a two-time Future Awards nominee, is a dynamic young force in Nollywood, celebrated for his grounded and natural acting style. Known for his standout performances in Far From Home and the recent Finding Me, he resonates deeply with Gen Z audiences, forging a strong connection both on and off the screen. Driven, authentic, and effortlessly relatable, Emeka is undoubtedly one of the voices shaping the future of Nollywood.
9. Pearl Shim Mugalla
At just 20, Pearl has gracefully evolved from a child actress into one of Nollywood’s most compelling young talents. With a growing body of work that includes powerful performances and socially conscious roles—such as her standout appearance in Almajiri—she is proving that age is no barrier to leadership on screen.
“I’m proof that young girls in Nollywood don’t have to wait—we can lead now,” Pearl affirms, reflecting on her journey and the impact of her recent roles.
Pearl Shim
Streaming platforms have become gateways for these young actors to shine. In 2022 alone, over 50 Nigerian films made it to Netflix, giving these Nollywood rising stars a truly global stage.
But the shift and growth is not limited to just new faces, there has been a shift and evolution in stories and plot as Gen z actors are redefining Nollywood to push relevant narratives. From topics about mental health, to coming of age stories, and even supernatural thrillers, these stories feel raw, relevant and real.
The Gen Z Nollywood faces are not just acting, they’re building fandoms and creating movements.
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