Exclusive Interview: A Glimpse into the Past of Mike Afolarin

Q: What was your occupation before stepping into the world of entertainment?

A: My roots have always been in the entertainment realm, yet I predominantly operated behind the scenes in the realm of filmmaking. My journey involved photography and collaborating with camera crews before transitioning into acting.

Q: Who served as your primary inspiration in the film industry?

A: A multitude of influential figures have crossed my path since the inception of my career. Gabriel Afolayan notably steered my career trajectory during its nascent phase.

Engaging in dialogues with him regarding performances, receiving his counsel and insights proved invaluable for my progression.

Q: Amidst all the movies you’ve starred in, which production do you believe pushed the boundaries of your creative capabilities?

A: Each cinematic undertaking has invariably stretched my creative limits in diverse facets and manners. Nonetheless, “House of Gaa” presented a distinct challenge by demanding a physical toll and requiring me to deliver Yoruba dialogue in its historic dialect, along with delving into the profundity of character emotions.

Various character portrayals have tested me in multifaceted ways, making it arduous to pinpoint a singular endeavor.

Q: Are you at ease with the fame or do you prefer maintaining a discreet profile?

A: I gravitate towards a more reserved stance. I neither seek omnipresence as a celebrity nor perceive myself as such; rather, I identify as an actor dedicated to executing his duties professionally within the industry.

Q: If you hadn’t pursued acting or entered the creative sphere, which field do you envisage thriving in?

A: The creative domain would likely continue to magnetize me. Currently, photography instantly springs to mind as a potential pursuit.

Q: What pastime from your past do you still relish engaging in?

A: I often characterize myself as a fairly uneventful individual. Leisurely indulging in video games stands as a perennial source of enjoyment whenever I secure downtime away from sets.

Q: Is there something you wish you could alter about your past?

A: I harbor no desires to amend the past. Every choice and decision that has shaped my journey culminated in my existing circumstances.

Q: How do you strike a balance between your public persona and personal life?

A: I consciously intersperse breaks between filming commitments. Periodically disconnecting from social media serves as another integral aspect. Devoting time to family interactions and social outings with friends constitute vital components of my equilibrium.

Q: What advice would you offer individuals contemplating a career in the film industry?

A: The avenues to penetrate the film industry are manifold. Ascension commences with smaller roles, necessitating a gradual ascent. The absence of a convenient benefactor to catapult you to the forefront implies a crowded field vying for visibility. To surmount these challenges, meticulous preparation and unwavering diligence are imperative for progression.

Q: Are there any upcoming projects you’re currently engaged in?

A: Yes, several projects are currently in the pipeline, although details cannot be extensively divulged at this juncture. Several unreleased films are in the offing, including “Freedom Way,” slated for showcasing at the Toronto International Film Festival—an endeavor that engenders considerable anticipation.

Additionally, “Red Circle” is earmarked for release in the forthcoming year, serving as noteworthy undertakings open for discussion presently.

Q: Share a lesser-known aspect about yourself.

A: I derive immense pleasure from immersing myself in the realm of soulful melodies.