In 2022, Osagie Odigbo Mitchelle, known in the industry as Ese Royal, made a bold decision that set her apart from her peers. Despite her deep-rooted passion for acting, the aspiring star from Edo State turned down an opportunity to step into an acting role. Instead, she chose to focus on her work as a line producer in film productions—a move that demonstrated her long-term vision for success. “Acting has always been my dream, but I knew that without a solid understanding of the industry and time to develop myself, I wouldn’t be ready to give my best,” Ese explained.
Ese’s background in Mass Communication from Auchi Polytechnic had prepared her for the media world, but it was her experience behind the scenes that truly transformed her perspective. By working as a line producer, she gained an intimate understanding of the complexities of film production and learned the importance of resilience and teamwork. “I learned that being part of a successful production requires more than talent—it needs dedication and the ability to stay grounded even when things don’t go as planned,” she said.
Her decision was met with mixed reactions within the industry. While some applauded her maturity and foresight, others questioned why she would pass up such a valuable opportunity early in her career. Ese, however, stood firm in her choice, believing that mastering the behind-the-scenes work would better prepare her for future roles. “Sometimes, people don’t understand why you make certain choices until they see the results. I’m not just here to be part of the industry; I want to contribute something meaningful,” she remarked.
Despite not taking center stage in 2022, Ese’s reputation grew within production circles. Colleagues and directors described her as highly dedicated and efficient, someone who brought insight and stability to every project she worked on. This experience solidified her reputation and gave her the confidence to pursue acting when the time was right.
Ese’s strategic decision reflected her belief that preparation meets opportunity. “Turning down that role was hard, but I’m investing in myself so that when the next opportunity comes, I’ll be ready—not just as an actor but as a well-rounded professional,” she said with determination.
Looking back, 2022 was a pivotal year for Ese Royal. It was a time of growth, learning, and laying the groundwork for a future that would see her emerge not only as a talented actor but as a dynamic force in the entertainment industry.
