Funke Akindele Recounts How She Made Her First ₦1 Million Through ‘I Need to Know’
Funke Akindele has shared how she earned her first ₦1 million from the TV series ‘I Need to Know’.
She said the 1999 role changed her life after years of rejection in Nollywood.
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has revealed how she earned her first ₦1 million in 1999 from her breakthrough role as “Bisi” in the popular TV series ‘I Need to Know’.
In a recent video, the actress reflected on her early days in the movie industry, recalling the struggles she faced before getting her big break. Akindele said she began acting in 1996, taking minor roles and enduring several rejections before finally landing the lead part that changed her life.
“I made that around 1999. I started my career in 1996, playing waka pass roles and getting lots of ‘no’s at auditions,” she said. “Then I got one big ‘yes’ with I Need to Know and that was how I earned my first ₦1 million.”
She disclosed that she almost lost the role after being told she was “overacting.” However, encouragement from her younger sister helped her refine her character portrayal, which ultimately secured her the part.
Akindele also shared how she spent her first earnings. “I showed it to my mom first, and she advised me to pay my tithe,” she said. “After that, I went to Yaba Market because I didn’t have enough shoes or good clothes. That’s how I started.”
The actress described the experience as both humbling and inspiring, noting that it marked the beginning of her journey toward becoming one of Nollywood’s most successful filmmakers.
