Popular Nollywood actress Mercy Aigbe has opened up about one of the most unforgettable and painful experiences she has faced in the Nigerian film industry.
During an interview on Oyinmomo TV, the Yoruba movie star revealed that a popular Nollywood actor once demanded sex from her in exchange for a role she had auditioned for.
“I Tore the Audition Form and Walked Away”
Recounting the disturbing encounter, Mercy Aigbe explained that the audition was a four-stage process, and she successfully advanced through the first three stages. However, when she got to the final stage, things took an unexpected turn.
She said:
“A popular actor, who was in charge of the audition, started making advances at me. I ignored him at first, but then he called me into his office for a private chat.”
The actress disclosed that the actor—who has since passed away—was a well-respected figure in Nollywood at the time. According to her, he told her that she would not be given the role unless she agreed to sleep with him, claiming that the producer was unwilling to take a risk on an unknown actress.
“When he insisted, I tore the audition form and walked out of the place.”
Nollywood’s Casting Couch Culture
Mercy Aigbe’s revelation has sparked discussions about the widespread issue of sexual harassment in Nollywood, particularly the “casting couch” culture where young actresses face exploitation and abuse in pursuit of their dreams.
While the actress has since built a successful career on her own terms, her story serves as a reminder of the struggles many women face in the entertainment industry.
Watch the full interview here (35:00 – 37:07).
