Actress and filmmaker Akinyanju Omobolarinde, known as Ashabi Simple, discusses her career and various topics with Oghenovovo Egodu-Michael.
Could you please share more details with me? I’m not sure what specific information you’re looking for.
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I originate from a family of six siblings, and I am the eldest. Our roots are in Idanre, Ondo State, yet we were raised in Ogun State.
Where did you go to school?
During my high school years, I studied at Ijaye Ojokoro High School located in Lagos. Following that, I moved on to Olabisi Onabanjo University situated in Ogun State, from which I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Yoruba Language. Initially, I had aimed for Theatre Arts, but due to not securing a spot in that program, I opted for Yoruba because of its perceived relation to theatre studies.
At what point did you develop your passion for acting?
I have always been passionate about acting. During my time in high school, I became part of the drama club and took up dancing as well. Our group participated in numerous performances and contests where I often portrayed supporting characters. Prior to venturing into film production, I spent my days crafting tales and scripting narratives. Following each piece, I would seek feedback from others to see if they found the story engaging.
At what point did you begin sharing your videos on the internet?
Although I’m not particularly active on social media, I had been using
Instagram
Since 2016 until my account got disabled, prior to that period, I was an active user.
Facebook
I might not frequently communicate online, but my presence is constant.
When did you begin making your own movies?
I’ve always aspired to become a producer. In 2014, I created my debut film which was released on CD. The movie featured unknown actors and we promoted it ourselves. Later, in 2019, I directed my initial YouTube production named ‘Ato’.
Considering the path from selling movies door-to-door to sharing content online, can you articulate your feelings about this journey?
Life unfolds through various phases, which I view as opportunities for development. As we’ve welcomed the digital era, including platforms such as
YouTube
, certain filmmakers continue to create tangible copies. This showcases the varied strategies within the sector. While some concentrate on digital platforms and online viewership, others stay dedicated to conventional movie theaters. Both methods come with their own set of obstacles and benefits.
Were you met with support or criticism for your initial films?
No one criticized us because making a movie itself was considered impressive at that time. Our base, Ogun State’s Ifo, had gained recognition as a hub for filmmaking. Typically, my mother would accommodate the entire team when they came into town for shoots. Those projects required an investment of more than N100,000. To handle the graphic designs, create the film cover, and produce the discs, I frequently visited Alaba International Market in Lagos. Afterward, I returned home to pack everything up and sell them myself. Additionally, I organized a grand event specifically for launching our movies. This whole process turned out to be quite eye-opening.
What types of messages would you like to convey through your movies?
I don’t produce movies unless they have significant messages. These messages should be integrated into the narrative. In ‘My Relative,’ I explored the idea that not all questions require answers, and certain truths might be best left undiscovered as they could lead to harm.
In ‘Teni Teni’, I emphasized the significance of valuing individuals during challenging moments since there’s no opportunity for improvement once one is buried. My films consistently carry messages aimed at educating, entertaining, and enlightening audiences.
What are your thoughts on karma?
Absolutely, this happens quite frequently. I’m confident that my actions aren’t malicious, hence I believe I could manage whatever repercussions come my way. I’ve witnessed how those who intended harm toward me faced consequences eventually. Doing wrong might delay the outcome, yet it inevitably catches up with them sooner or later. After all, one faces the outcomes of their own deeds.
Who are some prominent actors that you like collaborating with?
I enjoy collaborating with Odunlade Adekola because he has a free spirit, remains humble, and never looks down on others. Working alongside Amuda Eko and Juliet Jatto is equally delightful; they both have a great attitude towards their work. Additionally, Zainab Bakre makes teamwork enjoyable.
What type of assistance have you had throughout your journey, and which individuals have been the biggest sources of support for you?
Following God, my primary cheerleader is my director, Kayode Adebayo. His presence is essential to my narrative. He has consistently stood by my side.
While fans appreciate your strong work ethic, they frequently criticize your connection with Portable. What’s your take on this situation?
No one grasps my circumstances. Only I comprehend the reality of my life. Others may offer various opinions, yet I remain indifferent. What truly matters is my well-being. I am content and joyful, and that’s all that holds significance.
How do you handle controversy?
I’m a calm individual who doesn’t let issues affect me easily. The digital realm frequently diverges from actuality. Since numerous individuals refrain from discussing their genuine lives online, this seldom troubles me.
After featuring various kinds of soap in previous videos, Portable has led some viewers to speculate that he may be utilizing charms to sway people he goes out with. What do you make of this?
People who go to white-clad churches are familiar with numerous worship accessories such as candles, soaps, and water. These places have their own set of customs too. It isn’t an issue when Imams utilize soap, yet someone following tradition doing the same thing might be viewed as sinister. No one can control me since I am my own master. I put in significant effort and do not burden others. Occasionally, he acts solely for attention-seeking purposes. This is how he lives his life.
What strategies do you use to handle differing personalities within your relationship, particularly when paired with your composed attitude?
If you keep up with his posts, you’ll notice he occasionally mentions that social media isn’t reflective of real life. In reality, Okiki (Portable) is quite composed. We never engage in physical altercations; we might have disagreements online, but they remain there. Whenever he’s nearby, he acts like an infant. I simply observe his behavior online as though watching a favorite performer. Online, I’m mild-mannered, and even gentler face-to-face. However, if provoked, I won’t hold my tongue.
What steps do you take to get ready for a part?
As someone who has worked with numerous actors, I’ve noticed that training as an actress provides foundational skills. Additionally, my experience in filmmaking aids me in embodying characters more convincingly.
What difficulties have you encountered as a female professional in the entertainment sector?
I’ve encountered difficulties before, but those were back then. Figuring out who truly wished to assist wasn’t easy because so many others merely desired what lay beneath one’s clothes. My mentor had cautioned me against this. I remained steadfast, and over time, people ceased pestering me. Nowadays, my sole challenge involves dealing with my husband’s problems; however, familial matters differ significantly from professional ones. I’ll always remember those times when I slept in receptions, buses, or spent entire nights chatting rather than staying at someone else’s place.
Have you ever experienced problems with Portable regarding your responsibilities?
No, not really, but there was this one scene which nearly turned into an issue. The actor tried to get intimate with me during filming; he lifted up my dress for dramatic effect, and the producer capitalized on it by bribing some bloggers to hype it up. This made me quite uncomfortable. When I told Portable about it, all he suggested was being cautious. His laid-back response took me aback. He asked me to avoid kissing scenes altogether, and since I’m equally opposed to spontaneous smooches, I agreed without hesitation.
What strategies do you use to manage your professional responsibilities alongside your personal life?
God is the one who gives me strength. My mother has been my pillar of support, consistently backing me up. Being around people I trust also makes everything more manageable.
What approach do you take when dealing with criticism?
If you have confidence, others’ opinions won’t affect you. Imagine buying medication intended for headaches but using it for stomach pain, then claiming it doesn’t help; wouldn’t that be illogical? Provided I’m certain of my actions being right, I concentrate on the positive aspects. Sometimes individuals misuse something simply to gain notice.
Many believe that showcasing affluence is essential for achieving success in the entertainment industry. Has this mindset impacted your career?
Contentment is essential. People sometimes suggest that I require better “presentation” or that my appearance needs improvement, but I won’t feign such changes. Life has been kind to me, and dishonesty doesn’t suit me. I tend to speak freely, which makes having friends challenging since filtering what I say proves difficult. Living falsely goes against who I am; hence, I only rely on my family.
Where did you first meet Portable?
We connected through the internet. Once, he shared a BBC interview where he mentioned having sung for ten years. Another person questioned this claim, yet I believed him since I was aware of his experience. Like him, I also have a background in singing. After he messaged me, I felt thrilled as I harbored feelings for him. That’s when our conversations began. His energy and musical style were things I’ve always respected.
Are there any interests or activities you pursue outside of your work as an actor and producer?
Not exactly. My primary interests lie in acting, singing, and scriptwriting.
Are you considering releasing music sometime in the future?
I’m unable to confirm at the moment, but I could potentially develop a narrative that incorporates singing.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
