Deyemi Okanlawon: Surprising Truths About Celebrity Life

In his reflections on his rise to popularity, Nollywood actor Deyemi Okanlawon acknowledged that although he had always wanted to be a famous actor, he had never foreseen the difficulties of becoming a celebrity.

Looking back on his career in an interview with Saturday Beats, he admitted that although he had perfected his art, he had first undervalued branding, which is essential for staying in the business. He acknowledged that he would have been more deliberate with his brand if he had known.

"I didn't know anything about fame, but I wanted to act," he said. I aspired to be an outstanding actor. For me, becoming famous is an entirely different ball of wax.

I wish I had realized that I ought to have given my brand more thought. Although I was skilled in the art, branding was the one area I was lacking in knowledge. However, after I did, it began to function better, and I gained popularity.

He emphasized that the secret to success in the entertainment industry is having both skill and a great brand. "The ideal guy is one who possesses both talent and brand, and that's what I'm aiming for. Either you are so skilled at what you do that you begin working on your brand, or you do both at the same time.

Deyemi acknowledged that navigating celebrity is still difficult, even with his accomplishments. He remarked, "I am surviving acting, but I am not sure if I am managing it (fame)."

"I would advise this anytime—as an entertainer, work on your brand so you become so popular that they call you to act and also to promote the film," he continued, urging other entertainers. It has more to do with branding.