By Damilola Fatunmise
Actress, Folorunsho Adeola aka Arikegold is a fast rising actress in the Yoruba movie sector of Nollywood. With her flawless skin and talent, she is a face every producer wants to reckon with. Abeokuta, Ogun State-born and University of Ibadan graduate, Arikegold has just finished working on her first home video entitled ‘Ike’ and featuring Odunlade Adekola, Mr Latin, Fathia Balogun and many others. In this chat with Entertainer, Arikegold gives details of her journey into the movie industry and an insight into what her ideal man should be.
How did you come into acting?
Acting has always been my passion since I was a kid. I have always wanted to be on screen and that made me to join a theatre group under the supervision of Bolaji Amusan aka Mr. Latin. I started acting officially in 2007 after graduating from Moshood Abiola Polytechnic but I later proceeded to University of Ibadan for my degree.
What would you describe as the major challenge you encountered at the initial stage of your career?
I had a lot of challenges but I count all of them as lessons and blessings. Nothing good comes easy.
Who are your role models in the industry?
My major role models are Omoni Oboli and Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde. They have been able to strike a balance between family, marriage and career. I feel that is one of the most difficult things to combine as a celebrity.
What is the inspiration behind the story line of your new movie, Ike?
The inspiration came from some of the things I have seen and heard, and also from what people experience in the society today.
Why did you wait this long before producing your own movie?
Good things take time. I had to take my time but I know the time starts now with Ike.
You are beautiful and classy, what are your beauty tips?
It is God ‘jare,’ and also I don’t joke with my skin. I try as much as I can not to sleep with makeup on my face. Even if I return home very tired I still find time to wash it off.
Are you in any relationship at the moment?
Hmmm… you people have come again. Okay, I am single and happy.
Who are you crushing on in the industry?
My crush knows himself. I I say anything the media could twist it.
Can you marry an actor?
I am sorry I can’t. Let me just be crushing on them like that, marry? Why?
Do you have any regret for being a star?
No, I don’t have any regret. It is a thing I have always wanted. I am just actualizing my dream and I thank God I am not where I used to be.
Have you ever been sexually harassed?
No, I have not and I will not by God’s grace.
How would you describe yourself?
I am simple, gentle, shy and sexy. I make myself happy now and I love me.
Aside Ike, is there any other project you are working on?
Definitely, like I said earlier, Ike is my first and it has already opened doors for more projects; more projects are coming.
What are the qualities you desire in the man you will like to settle for?
My ideal man must be very hard working. He must be a God-fearing man and I don’t mean an SU. Even if he is ‘swagalicious,’ he must be very religious and sure-footed. I don’t mind a very romantic and handsome guy, and of course, I know if he is hard working, he will not be poor.
Aside acting, what else do you do?
I am into event planning. I have events I do every year but acting has really taken my time, but I am planning to have a grocery very soon.
Can you act nude?
Hell no!!! Why do that? I can never act nude for anything in this world.
How did you get the name Arikegold?
My Yoruba pet name is Arike and in my house they added gold to it, and that is how the name came to stay.
A word for your fans out there?
I want to thank you guys for supporting Arikegold and praying for me. You all are the reason I wake up with smiles on my face. You are the ones that keep motivating me. I want you to know that you can be whatever you want if you let your determination determine your destiny. Never look down on anybody because you don’t know tomorrow. Thanks for your love always.
