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Tag: Kehinde Bankole

  • Kehinde Bankole celebrates 20 years in Nollywood

    Kehinde Bankole celebrates 20 years in Nollywood

    Actress Kehinde Bankole has celebrated her 20th anniversary in the movie industry with lovely photos shared on Instagram.

    In her post, the award-winning actress expressed sincere gratitude to everyone who has supported her along her journey, describing the past twenty years as filled with “lights, camera, and unforgettable moments on stage.”

    Bankole attributed her success to God, while also appreciating her family, loved ones, fans, friends, award platforms, investors, directors, and producers for playing vital roles in her growth and achievements.

    Read Also: BBNAIJA S10: Thelma Lawson, Bright Morgan evicted in dramatic twist

    She noted that their unwavering support made her dream possible and allowed her to shine, adding that she eagerly looks forward to the next chapter of her career.

    She wrote, “Over 20 years of lights, camera, and unforgettable moments on stage! From Stage to Screen, every chapter is made possible by GOD and You.

    “Grateful beyond words to my incredible family and loved ones, WAPTV, my fans, my friends, the award industries, investors, every director and producer who has hired me, improved my skills, and trusted me with their work, especially the genuine, selfless people who have taught me so much! You all made this dream possible and let me shine. From the bottom of my heart, thank you!”

    This milestone comes after Kehinde’s notable win as Best Lead Actress at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) for her role in “Adire” last year.

  • Good film doesn’t need nudity, excessive kissing scenes – Kehinde Bankole

    Good film doesn’t need nudity, excessive kissing scenes – Kehinde Bankole

    Actress Kehinde Bankole has shared her thoughts on nudity and kissing in movies, stating that they are not always necessary for a compelling narrative.

    In a recent interview on the YouTube podcast ‘Duke Rants’, Kehinde emphasised that any nudity should be included with careful consideration and purpose.

    She explained that context is key, and nudity can be portrayed in a non-sensual way if done intelligently.

    Kehinde also noted that excessive kissing and nudity are not always required to tell a good story, using the example of a married couple’s scene not needing to start with a s3xual act.

    Read Also: KEHINDE BANKOLE : Playing Funmilayo Ransome- Kuti inspired my new movement

    “The key word is intelligent. There are instances where you see nudity, but it’s not perceived as sensual because of the context.

    “As far as it is intelligently required, not just because it is required. Sometimes, you don’t need nudity, you don’t need excessive kissing, you don’t need all of that to tell a good story.

    “For example, if a couple has been married for 10 years, you don’t need to start the scene by showing them in a sexual act,” she explained.

    When asked about her willingness to go nude in a film, Kehinde expressed unease, citing the risk of her response being misinterpreted.

    She said that she can do what is artistically required, but prefers not to answer directly.

    “I don’t like that question because the answer would always be taken out of context. This is the internet, after all. I’ll just say that I can do what is artistically required,” she emphasised.

  • KEHINDE BANKOLE : Playing Funmilayo Ransome- Kuti inspired my new movement

    KEHINDE BANKOLE : Playing Funmilayo Ransome- Kuti inspired my new movement

    Award-Winning actress Kehinde Bankole has announced that she is set to unveil her new non-governmental organisation, ‘What About the People (WATP).’

    The initiative marks a significant turning point for Bankole, whose passion for social change was reinforced by her transformative experience portraying the Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti in the new biopic by Bolanle Austen-Peters.

    “Stepping into the shoes of such a fearless advocate opened my eyes differently to the immense challenges faced by the Nigerian people. Funmilayo’s unwavering commitment to change and justice resonated deeply with me, and I knew I had to do something tangible to make a difference.

    “It has awakened the knowledge that patriotism and activism can work together hand in hand without being seen as antagonistic or problematic, it’s all for the good of the people,” she added.

    Read Also: Jaiye Kuti leads Odunlade Adekola,Iyabo Ojo, others to Blacksmith premiere

    According to Bankole, WATP aims to empower and advocate for underserved communities in Nigeria, focusing on critical areas like re-orientation, education, and sensitisation to both the people’s duties and their rights in their development, not just one or the other and also support for women in these areas.

    She further said that the organisation will work collaboratively with local partners and stakeholders to develop sustainable solutions that address the root causes of poverty, inequality, and social injustice.

    Bankole’s dedication to social causes extends beyond ‘What About the People.’

    While she remains tight-lipped on any potential foray into politics, she emphasises her commitment to using her platform as a celebrity to amplify the voices of the marginalised and advocate for positive change.

    “Whether through film, community impact or other endeavours, I intend to use my influence to create a more equitable Nigeria. We know the issues here and there, the question is ‘Are we willing to proffer solutions in our little ways?’ But it is not about the Government alone, we need to ask, ‘What about the people?’ and take action to ensure their eventual well-being is prioritised.”

  • Kehinde Bankole lauds Onga as Segun Johnson thrills guests

    Kehinde Bankole lauds Onga as Segun Johnson thrills guests

    Popular seasoning brand, Onga, has solidified its commitment to celebrating African culture and talent by sponsoring both the AMVCA Cultural Day and the Best Lead Actress Award at the 10th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) ceremony.

    In an acknowledgement, 2024 AMVCA Best Female Lead Actress Kehinde Bankole extended her gratitude to the Onga brand for sponsoring the category she won. Her words of appreciation underscored the brand’s commitment to supporting and recognizing outstanding talent within the African film and television industry.

    Adebola Williams, Marketing Director at Promasidor, noted how delighted the Onga brand is supporting the creative industry. 

    “We take immense pride in supporting talented actresses who are putting African women in the spotlight,” she said. “Their creativity and hard work serve as inspirations to us all. Sponsoring this award is our way of paying tribute to their outstanding achievements and recognizing their invaluable role in shaping the narrative of African women.”

    Read Also: Actress Kehinde Bankole reveals personal struggle, calls for help

    Meanwhile, on May 10, a celebration of African Heritage and excellence, The AMVCA Cultural Day took place at The Onga Village, Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos. Anchored by the multi-talented Bisola Aiyeola, the event brought together notable members of the entertainment industry with guests adorned in stunning traditional African attire and showcasing the continent’s diverse cultures.

    The feast featured a delightful array of meals like ‘Ongalicious’ Jollof Rice, Onga’s Signature Smokey party Jollof rice, to ‘Abula, , Miyan Kuka, kunu, and Egusi’ soups representing favourite meals from the Western, Northern, and Eastern parts of Nigeria.

    Onga played a pivotal role as the headline sponsor, ensuring the event was a resounding success.

    Guests were also entertained with traditional games and other fun activities. The traditional ambiance of The Onga Village gave meaning to the celebration of African Culture

    Performing artiste, Segun Johnson’s electrifying performance, tagged the Onga Moment, left guests enthralled throughout the event. His captivating medleys added an extra spark to the already vibrant event.

    Among the esteemed celebrities who graced the event were Iyabo Ojo, Saidi Balogun, Kunle Remi, Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD), Alex Otti, Odunlade Adekola, Lateef Adedimeji, Scarlet Gomez and others.

     Williams also expressed the brand’s strategic fit with the cultural day celebration.

  • Kehinde Bankole unveils jewelry collection

    AFTER three years of planning, cross-over actress, Kehinde Bankole, has released her long term dream of owning a jewelry collection.

    The actress made it known that the photo shoot to promote the collection was done three year ago with her collaborator Gbenga Art Smith.

    “This was a shoot I did with my long-time collaborator @gbengaartsmith in 2016. Yes, you read right- a whole 3 years ago!!! Yet still looks as good as new. Now imagine the kind of magic we are creating now in 2019 with my jewelry collection,” she wrote.

    One of the collection named after popular singer Asa, had the actress say this: “Ayára bí Àsá! (“As swift as an eagle!”) Here is the “ASA” earring (named after acclaimed Nigerian-French singer @asaofficial). When I think of Asa and her meteoric rise to the zenith of music excellence like a swift eagle, I think of passion as fierce as red and a spirit as bold and beautiful as these tassel earrings…She is indeed the Queen of hearts. Our hearts.”

    Other collections are ‘MALALA’ named after Malala Yousafzai, the 21-year old Pakistani female activist for female education and the youngest Nobel Prize laureate. Another is ‘IBK’ which is named after the first female chairman of First Bank, Ibukun Awosika and ‘GENNY’ stud earrings, named after Nollywood diva, Genevieve Nnaji.

    According to Bankole, the stud earring describes Genevieve’s simplicity.

    “It is so her…simple and classy! I remember how she walked up to me after I won “Best actress” category at AMVCA 2015 and gave me a warm hug and congratulated me with few words coated in gold. A kind-hearted dynamo and a half is who you are, Queen Genny.”

  • KEHINDE BANKOLE TURNS BEAUTICIAN

    ACTRESS Kehinde Bankole has joined the league of actresses who have embraced body care and beauty business as second occupation.

    Bankole who gave a hint about her forthcoming beauty products stated: “A woman may not have the best figure 8 shape, but she must take care of her Skin and her Hair, they are her sweetest beauty. My Affordable skin products available soon.”

    In one of her motivational talks for the week, the actress encourages her fans to work courageously daily towards the life they are created for.

    “The fear of myself is the worst fear of all. Fear of failure, fear of even success, imagine being afraid you might succeed so big! What kind of fear is that? fear of mistakes, fear of criticism, fear of choices, fear of being alone and taking steps out into unknown grounds,” she said.

    Kehinde Bankole is a Nigerian actress, model and television host. She made her entertainment debut in the 2003 Miss Commonwealth Nigeria beauty contest, and then proceeded to the 2004 Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria pageant. She won the revelation of the year award at the 2009 Best of Nollywood Awards; two years after her first screen feature in Wale Adenuga’s Super story Everything it Takes.

  • Wole Ojo, Kehinde Bankole, others, star in ‘Bachelor’s Eve’

    Wole Ojo, Kehinde Bankole, others, star in ‘Bachelor’s Eve’

    All is set for the release of romantic comedy ‘Bachelor’s Eve’ across Nigerian cinemas on February 16.

    Starring Nollywood stars like Wole Ojo, Kehinde Bankole, Doris Simeon, Gbenro Ajibade, Frankincense, Jumoke Odetola and Kehinde Olorunyomi among others, ‘Bachelor’s Eve’ tells the story of a handsome player, Uche, who is ready to finally tie the marital knot with the love of his life. Their relationship is made in Heaven and married life is destined to be great. ‘24’ hours before d-day, Uche hangs out with his team of Casanovas to bid bachelorhood good bye. All goes well until a dark secret rears its ugly head and sets off a chain reaction that forcefully subjects their love to the burning test flames.

    The movie which was directed by Rotimi Rajii and produced by Adefajo Ayobami, is distributed by Metro Classic Pictures.

    Raji, who has works such as psycho-thriller movie, ‘Truth or Die’, Freezing Point (TV series) is confident that the movie has what it takes to create a memorable viewing experience for movie goers.

    “Directors constantly face challenges that pop up during production while trying to create a film that will not only stand out from other productions but will also retain high technical aspects synonymous with quality productions,” Raji said.

    “This is no different and I’m glad that months of diligence and resilience has paid off, culminating in this fantastic production. I believe in the Tourism potentials of the country and explored this angle. It is one of the key ways of enhancing film tourism in Nigeria.”

    Wole Ojo whose filmography includes ‘Maami,’ ‘Out Of Luck,’ ‘Beyond blood,’ said “I loved being on the set of ‘Bachelor’s Eve.’ Despite the challenges faced, it felt like a walk in the park with the director whose creativity solved same. The story indeed is a true reflection of what can happen in ‘24’hours before tying the knot, reminding us that there shouldn’t be room for secrets between the intended parties, friends and even families. It is without an iota of doubt a wonderful romantic comedy.”

  • 13 corps members escape death in Oyo

    At least 13 corps members taking part in the 2016 Batch B Stream II in Oyo State narrowly escaped death at their National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Iseyin on Tuesday.

    The Nation gathered that the corps members under the aegis of Nigerian Christian Corpers Fellowship (NCCF) were having their evening fellowship when their worship centre collapsed and injured many of them.

    A corps member told our correspondent that a heavy breeze that accompanied the rain pulled down the tent and caused pandemonium among the corps members.

    “Although normalcy has since returned to the camp after the injured members were taken to hospital. There was no immediate medical attention for them in the camp. They were taken to a private hospital outside the camp and we leant that they are responding to treatment. Some of them were injured in the head, hand, leg and back, among others,” the corps member said.

    Confirming the incident in a statement issued on Wednesday, the NYSC Public Relations Officer in Oyo State, Mr. Kehinde Bankole, said the collapse of the worship centre was caused by the year’s first rain.

     

  • KEHINDE BANKOLE becomes Iyalode in UK

    KEHINDE BANKOLE becomes Iyalode in UK

    NOLLYWOOD actress Kehinde Bankole and other international actors are currently on a world premiere tour of  Iya Lode of Eti, a re-imagining of the Duchess of Malfi; a presentation of Utopia Theatre by Debo Oluwatuminu, inspired by John Webster’s masterpiece.

    The play, according to the organisers is a unique reinvention of a classic, set in pre-colonial Yoruba land. The story is centred on the recently widowed Iyalode who longs to marry her lover Oguntade. But her scheming and controlling brothers forbid their union. When Iyalode secretly marries Oguntade, their love and lives are threatened. Iyalode of Eti is the story of how a woman asserts her strength and fights for her heart in a land ruled by men.

    The play which is written into a West African imagination by Utopia theatre at the West Yorkshire Playhouse, Leeds UK see the actors move to different theatres to stage the play to a live audience.

    Kehinde Bankole, who won Best Actress at the 2016 Africa Magic Video Choice Awards (AMVCA), plays Iyalode, shares movingly and emotively Iyalode’s unhappiness of being denied because of “royalty” and “being a woman” and expresses distraught of her eventual torture and confinement.

    According to the excited actress who has been posting pictures of the stage play, “Africa has a spirit. My heart, my soul, all for Africa. God planted me on the right soil. There are us I dream of. I mean you and I. Yes you, we can walk through it daily. We can make Africa better. God help us.”

    Other actors include Emma Williams, Debo Oluwatuminu, Patrice Naiambana, Chris Speight, Rob Hart, West Yorkshire Playhouse and Utopia Theatre.

  • How I handle advances from men –Kehinde Bankole

    How I handle advances from men –Kehinde Bankole

    After plunging into acting after a modelling career, Kehinde Bankole recently won Best Actress (Drama) at the 2015 Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Award (AMVCA) for her role as Tawa in the epic movie, October 1. In this interview with JOE AGBRO JR., the beautiful actress talks about her beginning, how the award is speeding up her career and other matters

    You started in the entertainment industry as a model. How did the whole acting thing begin for you?

    Well, acting began after I wanted more than modelling.  I had competed twice already in a beauty pageant, being the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria 2004 and Miss Commonwealth in 2003, where I made top 10 and top five respectively and went on to do run-way modelling for Mon Ami, but I would be advised then by the actress playing Miss Pepeiye for Papa Ajasco series, Leona, and my twin sister who had begun acting then to come for an audition at Wale Adenuga Productions. I went and that was the beginning.

    Between modelling and acting, which is more lucrative?

    They both are lucrative. Let me explain. Modelling at the level I started which was just runway was not lucrative then when compared to acting, but modelling for me now is quite lucrative as it’s not just being a face or a body any more but advanced unto being a brand spokesperson and ambassador and professional image representative.

     What was your first major acting role and when was it?

    My first major acting role was as a character called Caro in One Bad Apple episode of the Super Story series where I worked alongside Wale Adebayo (Sango as Corporal Francis and Grace Ama as Tayo).

     When you first started, did your parents object to acting?

    They did not object but were a bit hesitant because of their concern for my academics, but after proving two years consecutively in school that I could have good grades and still go down to Lagos from Ogun State University to act, they relaxed their concerns a little more.

     Acting puts people in the limelight. Has being an actress robbed you of privacy?

    Certainly, being an actress had robbed me of some level of privacy but I have still been able to maintain some privacy and enjoy my alone moments when I’m off camera.

    What is happening to the show, Soul Sisters, which you were doing with two other ladies?

    The Soul Sisters show has been off air for a while. That is not to say we cannot still come together to bring something forward to the fans. We will wait to see what the future holds.

    You’re a twin. Tell us a little about your twin sister.

    Wow! Fashionista, resilient event planner and business woman. We have our moments of arguing but we are quick to agree and move on.  She is my biggest fan and shares that spot with only one more person. And one of the major advisers over my career and life decisions. That’s my twin sister.

     What other things do you do apart from acting?

    Singing – I love writing music. I make little poems here and there. And I love to sketch.

     What do you consider as your major assets?

    My skill as an evolving actor, my heart and my unique looks.

    You recently won Best Actress at the AMVCA for your role in October 1. How did you get the role for the movie?

    I had earlier gone to Mr Afolayan’s Golden Effect to read for a role but did not get a call back.  Then sometime recently I got a call from him to come and read for a part, being Tawa. I went and read. And this time I got a call back. I guess I must have left a better impression this time.

     What’s the difference between you and Tawa in October 1?

    The difference between me and Tawa is that Tawa was quiet as most women those days were groomed to be. But Kehinde is quite vocal.

     Did you foresee winning the award?

    I had on few occasions thought how ‘wow,’ it will be to win the best actress for the year in the drama category, and even said a few words to myself as an acceptance speech (laughing), but I was completely overjoyed when I was announced winner.

    How has your life changed after winning the AMVCA and how do you intend to spend the N1m prize money?

    Drastically. I have been getting more attention for all my work that had been out there initially before the award. I have been getting more scripts and looking more into roles that will further prove my strength. It’s been beautiful.

    It was rumoured that you had to make your complexion darker for the role. Was it that you were bleaching before that?

    No, nothing of the sort. My skin had been and remains a brown one. But, I had before then been carefully protecting it from darkening with sun screens. But on getting the role, I had to stop all the protection and switch to shea butter and coconut oil which is known to both smoothen and darken as it polishes the skin.

    You also cut your hair for the movie. Was that a difficult experience?

    No, it was not. Once I had begun to mentally prepare myself for a role, all thoughts about bringing the role to reality is my next surge of excitement.

     What are some of the challenges you have experienced in the movie industry?

    So far, (it has) majorly been at the beginning – communication. Getting information about (opportunities) but now social media and (the) jet age had helped to eradicate that.

    How many movies and TV series have you acted in so far?

    About 10 movies and five TV series.

     Who are your role models in the industry?

    In no particular order, they are Wale Adenuga, Tyler Perry, Kunle Afolayan and Oprah Winfrey.

    Acting comes with numerous challenges. Was there any time you wanted to quit acting?

    There has never been a time I wanted to quit acting.

    You’re skinny. Are there times that you feel you should put on more flesh?

    I am perfectly happy with my body. I continue to keep it fit and healthy.

    You’re always smiling and a lot of people won’t know your other side. What are some things that can put you off?

    I can be put off by dishonesty and pettiness and by people who have low self-esteem and resort to pride to feel comfortable with themselves.

    Tell us something someone has said to you about your gap tooth

    That it’s very lovely.

     How do you socialise?

    I do that with good conversations and an honest smile. I also go out for good movies and fun times with friends and associates.

    You’re a pretty lady. In a recent interview, you said you’re not single and you’re not married. What exactly do you mean?

    Well, with that I meant I am the type that likes to keep that private until I (am) ready to reveal the actual status which will by then be open for all to see.

     How do you respond to male advances, both from fans and other professionals in the industry?

    I always treat them with respect and let them know my stand politely. And so far, it’s been working well that way.

     If you were not acting, what would you have been doing?

    I would be a singer and beauty business consultant.

     Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?

    I see myself in international film projects that will make Nigeria shine steadily to the rest of the world and projects to be remembered in a long time to come.

     It’s election period. Are you going to vote?

    Yes, I am going to vote the party that seems to convince me as a better choice after I have asked lots of questions from the much older generation who know the truth about all the political fronts being presented to especially we this young generation, who don’t know much of the truth.