Jide Kosoko’s perspective on the sex-for-role controversy reflects a common debate in Nollywood and other film industries worldwide. While he acknowledges that some individuals might exploit others, he insists that it ultimately remains a personal choice. His statement aligns with the view that while unethical practices exist, they are not institutionalized, and talent and hard work still play a crucial role in success.
He said, “I don’t understand, if I say I need you to come and warm my bed so that I can give you this role, and you say no, you don’t want, Go! You don’t want! They cannot force you to that. If anybody introduces anything to you, if you’re not interested, say no.
“But if you want that role by all means, that means you want to dance to his tune. I’m not saying he’s right to have introduced that to you but if he says it one way or the other, and you fall to it, that’s your business, how does that concern the whole world?”
He explained that he knows some actresses, even popular ones, who entered the industry with the mind of sleeping around so they could become famous.
“All these sex for roles thing, forget about it. I know some ladies that are equally coming into the industry with determination that ‘by the time I sleep with this, sleep with that, I will get my name. I know of some popular actresses, I know of even a magistrate,” the veteran actor said.
The discussion around sex-for-roles has been ongoing in Nollywood, with many actors and filmmakers calling for stricter regulations to prevent exploitation. Some industry veterans have advocated for mentorship and proper casting processes to protect aspiring actors from being taken advantage of.
