Dad Didn’t Want Me To Become An Actress

Winner of the Next Movie Star (NMS) 2012 reality show, Halimat Aitsegame, has said that her father was opposed to her decision to study Theatre Arts in the university, let alone becoming an actress.

Halimat, a Theatre Arts graduate of the University of Ibadan, emerged winner of the NMS few weeks ago, smiling home with a brand new Toyota SUV and cash reward.

“It has been a very tough battle convincing my dad that acting is my calling. This is what I am passionate about, but he wanted me to go the conventional route of Law, Accountancy and the likes. I am happy that Next Movie Star has proved me right. Beyond the star prizes, my ultimate victory is in the fact that my father can now appreciate the seriousness of my chosen career,” she said with satisfaction.

Bukola Ogunsote, an actress and one of the judges in NMS, said: “From the day Halimat entered for auditions, we knew she possesses the attitude and aptitude of a successful actress, which we thought she probably acquired because she read Theatre Arts. She proved to us while in the house that she is a complete package, an embodiment of great acting skills and an onscreen delight. I am not surprised at all that she won. She deserves it. More importantly, all the contestants are winners in their own right because it is not easy earning a spot among the lucky 20 that were chosen from thousands who applied for the show.”

Show organiser, Sola Fajobi, added that the story of Halimat, after she was declared winner brought tears to his eyes, considering her efforts at convincing her father that acting is what she wants to do. “I am sure the viewers who voted her did not even know this story of hers, which points to the fact that she is indeed a strong potential for the global movie industry,” Fajobi reckoned.

Runners-up in the competition were Olajoju Muse, Babatunde Samuel and Chibufue Bridget.

– Bayo Adetu