Veteran Nollywood actor Nkem Owoh, popularly known as Osuofia, has revealed that his successful acting career began by accident rather than by design.

Speaking on Sunday’s episode of the Selah Meditate podcast, Owoh disclosed that his original ambition was to work behind the scenes as a scriptwriter, but circumstances eventually pushed him into the spotlight.

According to the celebrated actor, colleagues who recognized his natural ability to entertain and make people laugh encouraged him to appear before the camera.

“My coming in front of the camera was an accident. I was a scriptwriter behind the scenes, and people started telling me to begin performing in front of the camera,” he said.

Recalling how it all started, Owoh explained that in the 1980s, the then ATV offered him a seven-minute stand-up comedy segment after noticing his comic talents.

“I remember ATV created a seven-minute programme for me to do stand-up comedy in the 80s. They told me to come in front of the camera because I was making people laugh behind the camera. After much pressure, I agreed. When I realized people appreciated what I was doing, that was how my acting career began,” he added.

What began as a brief television comedy appearance eventually evolved into a remarkable acting career, establishing Owoh as one of Nigeria’s most beloved and accomplished entertainers.

The actor also reflected on the realities of fame, noting that public recognition comes with significant personal sacrifices.

According to him, while many people admire the privileges associated with celebrity status, few understand the limitations it places on one’s personal freedom.

Owoh explained that fame has made it difficult for him to enjoy the simple freedoms he once took for granted, emphasizing that life in the public eye often comes at a cost despite its many rewards.