BY CHRISTIAN AGADIBE
From humble beginnings, actress Oma Nnadi is definitely making waves in Nolywood. The graduate of University of Port Harcourt, who also studied Film at the New York Film Academy, has starred in movies like The Good Wife, Fool’s Paradise, Wicked Sister and Girlfriends with Wives among others. In this chat with Entertainer, the light complexioned actress opens up on her career, challenges and ideal man.
Could you tell us about the job you are currently doing?
I’m shooting for David Chimere. She is producing for Rock TV and Iroko TV. We are currently on set.
What do you like about your character?
Wow! There is something I like about myself that I don’t think people have actually noticed. I am a versatile actress. I could play a small girl, an older woman or a sugar mummy effortlessly. People who follow my movies are like ‘Wow! Is this Oma?’ Presently, I am playing a lady in her early 40s that is heartbroken because she is approaching menopause and she doesn’t have a child.
How did your journey into Nollywood begin?
I got into Nollywood in 2001 when I was still in school. What happened was that while studying at the University of Port Harcourt, an audition came up in Enugu and I went for it and today the rest is history.
Did you feel nervous when you started?
I have always done plays from when I was little, so I got used to it quite early. And it was easy for me to get a lead role in a movie back then entitled, Egg of Life, acting alongside Georgina Onuoha and Nkiru Silvanus. I also got another lead role back then where I played the role of Clarion Chukwura’s daughter; that was in 2005. Then things kind of went slow but picked up after I graduated. After that, I went to study Acting at the New York Film Academy and came back in 2010 and here I am today.
You said you did movies as little girl. Could you tell us about your growing up?
Wow! Growing up was a lot of fun. I was doing plays back then in church. I was a natural entertainer because even when I was in secondary school, I was always on set doing stuff on social nights among others. I also choreographed plays and dances on stage and all that. I think I got all these from my mum because she is a drama queen; I guess it is hereditary.
Are you in a relationship?
(Laughter) That is private but yes I am.
Who is the lucky man?
I don’t know, don’t ask me that (laughs); Just believe that I am.
What are the qualities you desire in a man?
A man that believes in you, that trusts you. Whether you are out there, he trusts you.
Is marriage still far or near to you?
(Laughter) Marriage is very close for me. Thank you.
Has acting denied you anything?
No, in fact, it has paved the way and opened doors for me.