In a heartfelt Instagram post on Sunday, September 29, 2024, acclaimed Nollywood actress Wumi Toriola shared a gripping account of personal injury and perseverance that fueled her latest cinematic project, “Queen Lateefah.” The post, accompanied by photos of her injured hands and leg, offers a rare glimpse into the challenges faced by actors behind the scenes.
On a quiet afternoon just two days before shooting was set to begin on “Queen Lateefah,” Toriola experienced a harrowing accident in her Lagos home. “I had this heavy slip in my room, I fell soooo heavy,” she recounted. The actress found herself alone with her young son, as her nanny was on a break.
My little boy was screaming, but I was so strong at heart,” Toriola shared, describing the moments of fear and uncertainty that followed her fall. Despite the pain and initial inability to stand, the actress found an unexpected source of motivation: her long-held dream of bringing “Queen Lateefah” to life.
The extent of Toriola’s injuries was significant. The strength came with so much pain that I broke my kneels too,” she revealed. However, determined not to delay the production, she sought medical attention and pushed through the pain.
Film director Kunle Afolayan, who has worked with Toriola in the past, commented on her resilience: “Wumi’s dedication to her craft is truly inspiring. Many actors would have postponed shooting, but she found strength in her passion for the project.
Despite her injuries, Toriola arrived on set as scheduled. The production team scrambled to accommodate her condition, with the costume designer working tirelessly to conceal her fresh scars. I couldn’t afford to bleed inside by not bringing a story to life,” Toriola explained, highlighting the emotional investment she had made in the project.
Through this experience, Toriola found a deeper meaning in her journey as an actress. “A scar is a sign of Strength,” she reflected, adding, “just so you know, A STAR, not a SCAR.”
Her story has resonated with fans and fellow industry professionals alike. Nollywood veteran Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde praised Toriola’s openness, stating, “Wumi’s willingness to share her vulnerabilities makes her not just a great actress, but a role model for aspiring performers.”
Queen Lateefah” is currently showing in cinemas nationwide, standing as a testament to Toriola’s commitment and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.
