By Ayo Onikoyi
Nollywood actress Stella Udeze has attributed the relationship challenges faced by some actresses to widespread misconceptions about women in the film industry.
Speaking in a chat with Potpourri, the actress said trust issues often arise because many men wrongly stereotype actresses based on their profession.
According to her, the problem is less about the women themselves and more about society’s perception of female entertainers.
“Some actresses don’t seem to have happy relationships because of trust issues. In Nigeria, about 80 per cent of men believe that being an actress automatically makes you a prostitute. People need to learn how to separate the good from the bad,” she said.
Udeze acknowledged that actresses are often in the public eye, a reality she believes contributes to the misconceptions surrounding them.
“We can’t deny the fact that we are exposed to the world. But when people stop judging actresses based on stereotypes, they will realize that many of us are capable of having the best relationships,” she added.
The actress also dismissed claims that prostitution and “runs girls” have taken over Nollywood, insisting that the industry is filled with respectable women who have built successful careers and families.
“That’s why I keep saying people should learn to differentiate the good from the bad. Even if there are a few bad eggs, there are many good women in Nollywood who are wife materials and are enjoying happy marriages,” she said.
Speaking on her personal approach to relationships, Udeze said she prioritizes self-awareness and refuses to remain in situations that do not align with her values.
“I am a woman who approaches life thoughtfully and uses her senses in every situation. When things around me feel right, I stay. If not, I will kindly walk away,” she stated.
A graduate of English Education, Udeze began her acting journey in 2013 before briefly stepping away to study Event Management. She returned to the industry professionally in 2014 and has since featured in several productions, including Before Getting Married, Bleeding King, A Week to My Wedding, Melting Point and Double Stud.
Over the years, she has continued to build a reputation as one of Nollywood’s dedicated talents while advocating for a more balanced perception of women working in the entertainment industry.
