‘I have nothing against Funke’ — Afolayan explains film promotion remarks
Nollywood filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has clarified recent remarks about film promotion and cinema releases, insisting that his comments were misunderstood and were not aimed at actress Funke Akindele.
Speaking on Arise TV, Afolayan explained that the viral clip circulating online was taken from a film business forum discussing cinema economics and the sustainability of theatrical releases. He said his statements reflected personal views on the financial challenges of cinema distribution, not a critique of any colleague.
“I come from a background of travelling theatre and cinema,” he said. “Promoting films in cinemas is not bad, but it can be exhausting. My comments were about how revenue splits affect filmmakers, not about any individual.”
The filmmaker detailed that the discussion arose from a question by cinema operators on whether theatrical releases remain profitable after revenue sharing and taxes. Afolayan noted that several industry stakeholders, including EbonyLife Cinemas owner Mo Abudu, were present during the conversation.
Afolayan acknowledged that social media users linked his remarks to Funke Akindele, whose films have recently broken box-office records. He revealed that Akindele called him following the clip’s circulation, expressing concern over perceived criticism. He reassured that he had explained the context and emphasised he has no personal issues with her.
“I have absolutely nothing against Funke,” Afolayan said. “I never mentioned her name, nor did I advise against promotional activities like dancing or skits. I support colleagues’ projects and respect their models.”
He also contacted actress Toyin Abraham, who had been associated with the discussion online, confirming that she had no objections to his comments. Afolayan highlighted that just a week prior, he had praised Akindele’s career strategy during a masterclass at the Kaduna Film Festival, citing her consistent growth and successful brand.
Afolayan concluded by saying that his remarks aimed to encourage honest conversations about Nollywood’s financial sustainability and not to create division. He also promised to share footage from the Kaduna masterclass to further clarify his stance.
