Nollywood actress and filmmaker Ruth Kadiri has criticized producers who pressure actors to deliver one million views within 24 hours of a movie’s release on YouTube. Labelled the ‘Queen of YouTube Nollywood’ for her success on the platform, Kadiri emphasized that high viewership numbers are not the ultimate measure of a film’s success.
In a statement on her Instagram page, Kadiri wrote, “Dear Nollywood actors, take the pressure off your shoulders! Any producer who requires one million views from you in one day has failed. A good production requires more than your face. One million views is not a standard of success. So much y’all don’t know about YouTube. Don’t let their ignorance rob you of your joy.”
Kadiri’s remarks resonate with actors and industry professionals, sparking a broader conversation about the unrealistic expectations placed on actors to drive viewership numbers. Many argue that quality production, effective marketing, and storytelling are more critical to a movie’s success than relying solely on star power.
The actress, known for her compelling roles and engaging storytelling, has consistently used her platform to advocate for fair treatment and realistic expectations in the industry. Her comments highlight the need for producers to adopt a holistic approach to filmmaking rather than placing undue pressure on actors.
Kadiri’s statement has drawn praise from fans and colleagues alike, with many commending her for addressing the challenges faced by actors in the evolving Nollywood landscape.
