Nollywood actor Emeka Okoye has shared that his body size has caused him to lose several acting opportunities in the movie industry.
The actor, who began his career in 1999, said that producers have often overlooked him for certain roles because of his chubby appearance.
He explained in an interview with Saturday Sun that this has happened multiple times.
He said he also faced rejection when he was slimmer, as some filmmakers then considered him too small for their preferred characters.
Despite these challenges, Okoye said he remains grateful for the roles he has been given and content with how far he has come in his career.
The To Kill A Monkey star also spoke about his journey in Nollywood, recalling how he started with the movie Prophet of Darkness in Asaba and faced many trials along the way.
He explained that his strong faith and dedication helped him remain focused despite setbacks.
Okoye added that his acting choices are guided by his covenant with God, which is why he avoids deep kissing scenes or any role that conflicts with his beliefs.
After surviving a health scare earlier in the year, the Papa Pepe actor said he is thankful for life and described 2025 as one of his most fulfilling years so far.
He said: “Yes I have lost movie roles several times because of my looks. Ironically, when I was slimmer, I also lost roles because I was considered too small. But I’m content and grateful for every opportunity. It has always been God’s guidance.
“Since I started acting in 1999, I’ve turned down roles that go against my covenant with God. I do ‘safe kissing’ scenes like in Ms. Counselor but not deep or tongue-to-tongue kissing.
“During my early days, I experienced the good, the bad, and the ugly, but I never allowed the challenges to deter me. I stayed true to my calling. Weeks later, I got a call that Madam Kemi had picked me for the role in a Netflix Original. I screamed, knelt down, and burst into praise.”
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