Veteran Nollywood actress Laide Bakare has sparked controversy by advising young, ambitious women to prioritize starting a family over getting married. The 43-year-old star shared her unconventional views on balancing career and personal life during a revealing conversation on “Nollywood On Radio” on October 10, 2024.
Speaking from the bustling studio in Lagos, Bakare challenged traditional notions of success for women in the entertainment industry. “If you are aspiring to be a successful superstar as a young girl, I would advise you to get married and have kids early,” she stated, her voice filled with conviction. “This way, you can have the rest of your years to push your career because the family area is very important.”
However, Bakare quickly clarified her stance, emphasizing that marriage itself isn’t the priority. “I never thought of marriage when I had my first child,” she revealed. “I just wanted a baby. So the advice is not to get married early but start having a family.”
Bakare’s advice stems from her own journey in the Nigerian film industry. At 43, she has navigated two marriages and is a mother of three children. Her first daughter, Simi, was born in 2008 during her marriage to Olumide Kunfulire. Later, she welcomed two sons with her second husband, Lagos socialite Tunde Oriowo.
Laide’s perspective is shaped by her personal experiences,” notes cultural commentator Funmi Adewole. She’s seen firsthand the challenges of balancing a high-profile career with family life in the Nigerian context.
Bakare’s comments have elicited varied responses from within the Nollywood community. Rising actress Chiamaka Nwosu, 25, expressed reservations about the advice. While I respect Laide’s journey, the idea of having children before establishing my career is daunting,” she shared after the interview aired. It’s a very personal decision that each woman must make for herself.
On the other hand, veteran director Kunle Afolayan sees merit in Bakare’s perspective. “In this industry, timing is everything,” he remarked. Laide’s advice, while unconventional, addresses the real challenges women face in balancing career and family.
Bakare’s comments come at a time when the Nigerian film industry is experiencing a shift in gender dynamics. More women are taking on prominent roles both in front of and behind the camera, challenging traditional expectations.
We’re seeing a new generation of Nollywood actresses who are redefining what it means to be successful,” explains film critic Oladipo Agu. Laide’s advice adds to an ongoing conversation about work-life balance in the entertainment world.”
Bakare’s words continue to reverberate through social media and industry circles. Whether one agrees with her advice or not, it’s clear that the actress has ignited an important dialogue about the choices facing young women in Nollywood today.
In a world where career often takes precedence, Laide Bakare’s call to prioritize family offers a thought-provoking perspective on achieving holistic success in the demanding world of entertainment.
