Image Credit: Nollywood Archives / Instagram
Nigerian actor Yemi Solade has set the internet ablaze after boldly declaring that he is senior to veteran actor Pete Edochie in the acting profession. The statement, made during a recent interview, has ignited passionate conversations across social media, Nollywood circles, and the broader entertainment industry.
🗣️ Yemi Solade’s Bold Claim
In the now-viral video making rounds on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), Yemi Solade confidently stated:
“Yes, Pete Edochie is a legend and deserves his flowers, but when it comes to who started acting professionally first, I’m senior. I started acting before he came into the picture.”
This claim has caused a stir, considering Pete Edochie’s legendary status in Nigerian cinema, often referred to as one of the fathers of modern Nollywood.
📚 Quick Facts – Who Is Yemi Solade?
-
Full Name: Yemi Etieme Solade
-
Known For: Classic Yoruba & English films like Iriri Mi, Madam Dearest, The Widow, and more
-
Industry Start: Late 1970s, on stage before transitioning to screen
-
Background: Trained in Theatre Arts and well-respected in stage drama
Yemi Solade has always been outspoken about Nollywood politics, actor respect, and industry evolution. His recent statement seems to reaffirm his stance that recognition in Nollywood isn’t always based on timeline, but popularity.
🎥 Pete Edochie’s Legacy
-
Full Name: Chief Pete Edochie
-
Breakthrough Role: Okonkwo in “Things Fall Apart” (1987)
-
Known For: Fatherly, royal roles in blockbuster Nigerian movies
-
Industry Start: Late 1980s through NTA before rising to superstardom in Nollywood’s golden era
While many agree Edochie is more widely celebrated, some are beginning to explore Yemi’s point about timeline vs fame.
🗨️ Social Media Reactions
Nigerians on Twitter and Facebook have weighed in heavily:
@NaijaMovieTalk:
“Yemi Solade said he’s senior to Pete Edochie and suddenly my chest tightened. Baba fear God.”
@OlaFilms:
“This is not about age or fame. Yemi Solade might actually have been acting before Edochie started. Let’s separate recognition from timeline.”
@GistVilleNaija:
“E no matter who started first. Pete Edochie still dey your front in everything acting!”
.jpg)
0 Comments