In the midst of Nigeria’s dynamic and evolving film industry, a specific cadre of actors stood out as true box office champions in 2023. They amassed an estimated N2.939 billion from successful movies such as ‘A Tribe Called Judah’, ‘Malaika’, ‘Afamefuna’, and ‘Merry Men 3’, among others, amidst the glitz and glamour of the industry.
Based on data from Comscore and FilmOne, these celebrities have not only captivated audiences but also shattered records, solidifying their positions as the highest-grossing stars of the industry in 2023.
Despite notable names like Femi Adebayo, Richard Mofe-Damijo, ‘Breath of Life’ star Wale Ojo, and Bolanle Ninalowo not making the list, actors such as Emeka Ike, Odunlade Adekola, and Charles Okafor secured positions among the top 10 highest-grossing Nollywood actors for the year under review.
A prominent figure in Yoruba cinema, Adekola is not just a captivating actor but also a skilled director. His commitment to his craft and his knack for connecting with audiences have earned him two AMVCA wins. Whether in a leading role, such as in “A Million Baby” (Best Actor in a Comedy, 2018), or a supporting role, like in “Jankariwo” (Best Supporting Actor, 2022), Adekola consistently delivers memorable performances. In 2023, he was featured in the Nollywood film “Orisa”.
2023
Okanlawon made his feature film debut in 2010 with “ZR-7” and has since been involved in both acting and co-producing numerous short films. He is most renowned for his roles in “Omo Ghetto: The Saga”, “Blood Sisters”, and “King of Boys: The Return of the King”. Previously, Okanlawon held the title of the highest-grossing Nollywood actor in 2020 and 2021. In 2023, he appeared in five Nollywood films: “Love in a Pandemic”, “Domitillla”, “Different Strokes”, “Osato”, and “Maniac”.
Ayo Makun, a comedian and filmmaker, directed and starred in the Nigerian sitcom, “AY’s Crib”. His breakthrough into the big screen came in 2014 with the film “30 Days in Atlanta”. In 2023, A.Y was featured in only two Nollywood films: “Merry Men 3” and “Almajiri”.
The Nollywood actor and filmmaker rose to prominence after starring in the film “Deadly Affair” (1995). Over the years, he has appeared in numerous Nollywood films, including “Stigma,” “Secret Act,” “The Snake Girl,” and “Not Man Enough.” In 2023, Ike was featured in one Nollywood movie, titled “Malaika.”
Remi is a multifaceted talent, also known for his work as a producer, host, and model. He has appeared in films such as “Falling” and “Aníkúlápó,” and the television series “Tinsel” after winning the 7th edition of Gulder Ultimate Search in 2010. In 2023, Remi made appearances in several films including “Praise Party,” “The Kujus Again,” “Love and Lust and Other Things,” and “Something Like Gold.”
Nouah began his acting career in the early 1990s and has since won numerous awards as a leading man. He made his directorial debut with the film “Living in Bondage: Breaking Free” in 2019 and later directed the remake of the Nollywood classic “Rattle Snake: The Ahanna Story.” In 2023, Nouah appeared in two Nollywood films: “Love Lust and Other Things” and “Merry Men 3.”
3. Stan Nze – (N166 million)
Stan Nze began his acting career in stage plays and has been featured in the popular television show “Tinsel” along with numerous other Nollywood projects. In 2023, Nze appeared in four Nollywood films: “Afamefuna,” “Domitilla,” “The Trade,” and “A Weekend to Forget.”
Achufusi began his acting career with supporting roles in Nollywood films such as “Poka Messiah,” “Black Rose,” “Pretty Little Thing,” “Ofu Obi,” and “A Lonely Lane.” His breakthrough came in 2019 when he portrayed the charismatic Nnamdi Okeke in “Living in Bondage: Breaking Free,” earning him a Best Actor nomination and a Trailblazer Award at the 2020 AMVCA. In 2023, Achufusi appeared in two Nollywood films: “A Tribe Called Judah” and “Ifediche.”
Egbuson is known for his roles in the popular TV series “Tinsel” and the top-grossing 2023 movie “A Tribe Called Judah.” He won the Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Award (AMVCA) for Best Actor in a Drama in 2020. In 2023, Egbuson appeared in nine Nollywood films: “A Tribe Called Judah,” “The Kujus Again,” “Big Love,” “Honey Money,” “Something Like Gold,” “Unforgivable,” “The Bloom Boys,” “The Modern Woman,” and “Maniac.”
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