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Nollywood actress Jemima Osunde has voiced her frustration over the growing pressure on actors to build and maintain a strong social media presence, suggesting that their chances of landing film roles are now increasingly tied to their online engagement.
Speaking on the Running Lines Podcast, Osunde lamented the shift in the industry, where actors are expected to actively create and promote content online as part of their job.
"Now they're forcing actors to be social media content creators. It’s like, ‘You see that dance? You must dance on the internet.’ Why?" she questioned.
She expressed concern that actors without a significant social media following are at risk of being overlooked for roles, as producers prioritize those who can help market the film.
"That shouldn't be my job! How often do you see Keanu Reeves when he’s not acting? Why is it different for us?" she added.
Her remarks have sparked a debate online, with opinions divided. While some agree that actors shouldn’t be pressured into content creation, others argue that social media is now an essential tool for career growth and film promotion.
Some reactions to her message are:
???? "They are forcing themselves. Nobody is making them do it. They can simply say no."
???? "Business owners started this. The competition became so intense that traditional ads weren’t enough anymore."
???? "Not just actors, even business owners are affected. Why must I dance to reach my target audience?"
???? "Unfortunately, this is how the market works now. If you’re in a film, you have to help sell it. It also helps in marketing yourself as an actor."
???? "Times have changed. If you don’t evolve, you’ll be left behind."
While the debate continues, one thing is clear, social media has reshaped the entertainment industry, and actors are now facing new expectations beyond just their performances on screen.