Before Stardom With… Mike Afolarin

What was your job before you ventured into the entertainment industry?

I have always been in the entertainment industry but worked more behind-the-scenes in filmmaking. I was involved in photography and worked with camera crews before I started acting.

Who has been your biggest influence in the film industry?

I have had many great influences right from when I started. Gabriel Afolayan had a major influence on my career when I began.

I would have conversations with him about performances, and he’d give me advice and insights. That was very helpful in my journey.

In all the movies you’ve acted in, which one do you think stretched your creative ability?

Every movie I have done stretched my creativity in different aspects and ways. However, House of Gaa, challenged me physically, in terms of speaking Yoruba as it was spoken back in the day, and in the depth of the emotions the characters had to portray.

Different characters stretched me in various ways, so it’s hard to pick just one.

Are you comfortable being in the limelight, or would you rather keep a low profile?

I prefer to keep a low profile. I’m not everywhere as a celebrity; I see myself as an actor who goes to work and does his job. That’s how I view my role in the industry.

If you weren’t an actor or in the creative industry, what other industry do you think you would thrive in?

I think I would still end up in the creative space. Right now, the first thing that comes to mind is photography.

What is that thing you used to do for fun that you still enjoy doing?

I consider myself a pretty boring person. I enjoy playing video games whenever I have time off the sets.

What’s something you could have changed in the past?

I don’t think there’s anything I’d like to change about the past. Every choice and decision I have made brought me to where I am now.

How do you balance your life as a celebrity with your personal life?

I take breaks when I’m not filming. I often take long breaks from social media as well. I spend time with my family and go out with friends.

What’s your advice for people planning to start a career in the movie industry?

There are many ways to enter the movie industry. You can’t start from the top; you have to begin with smaller roles and work your way up. There isn’t a “godfather” who can simply place you at the front. There’s a long line of people trying to get in, so you need to stay prepared and work hard to advance.

Are you working on any new projects?

Yes, several projects are in the works, though I can’t speak much about them yet. I have a couple of movies that haven’t been released and some without release dates. I have a film called Freedom Way that is showing at the Toronto International Film Festival, which I’m excited about.

Another project, Red Circle, is expected to be released next year. Those are the ones I can discuss at the moment.

What’s something about you that people don’t know?

I love to enjoy good music.