Eso Dike is a versatile actor, rapper, host and TV presenter; he is also a trained lawyer with a few years of practice experience.
In a recent interview, he shares some of his story with us, as well as his thoughts on the Nigerian movie industry.
How and when did you get into acting?
I always had a passion for the arts. Especially acting and making music, so I got into it pretty early. Did a few school plays and always had some theatre training before I studied law. I got my first professional acting gig early in 2016.
Please tell us about your background
I was born and raised in Benin. I went to the university of Benin, where I studied law and proceeded to go to law school in Abuja. I am the 2nd of 4 children. I have an older sister and 2 younger brothers.
Did you receive any special/formal training before getting into acting?
Yes. I did a bit of theatre arts before I switched to study law. But, most of my acting training has come from masterclasses and online avenues. I am currently slated to partake in an acting course, starting in January 2022.
How would you define the Eso Dike brand?
Classy. Dignified. Casual chic. Street Smart.
What kind of roles do you typically prefer?
I’d like to think that I can get into any role, so I try not to get too comfortable playing a particular type of character. The goal is to challenge myself. So, I’d say I prefer a role that challenges me.
Nollywood get’s a lot of traction outside Nigeria, why do you think this is so?
That is because African content is hot right now and you just cannot avoid us. We are taking over the arts worldwide and our movies are no different. Also, there are Africans spread all over the world, and they want to live vicariously through African content.
What kind of infrastructure do you think is needed to make the movie industry even better?
A large “do it all” film studio/village will definitely go a long way. Think universal studios or the new Tyler Perry one in Atlanta.
Besides acting, what other areas can one get involved in to be a part of the industry?
There are several facets to movie making. You can be a director, producer, gaffer, sound engineer, locations manager, make up artist, costumier and the list goes on and on.
Do you see yourself transitioning to a producing or directing function in the future?
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Most definitely. It’s something that’s currently in the works. I hope to produce my first project in 2022, and direct something soon after. Fingers crossed!
What is the biggest role you’ve ever played?
So far, my biggest career role and the one that exposed me to a global audience has to be “Tsola ” on “THE SMART MONEY WOMAN ”, currently showing on Netflix. Tsola is a dapper, financially smart man who falls for Zuri(Osas Ighodaro) and a romance blossoms between them.
What are your thoughts on training schools and academies for the movie industry?
Training schools are very key. Being an actor is a life long learning process, and there are several noteworthy institutions that help actors reach higher potentials.
What advice would you give anyone that thinks they have the potential to act?
Go for it! I mean, that’s what I did.