Veteran Nollywood actor Yemi Solade has urged aspiring actors to seek proper training before pursuing fame, warning that shortcuts in the entertainment industry could undermine long-term success.
Speaking in an interview with Sunday Scoop, Solade stressed that discipline, formal education and structured learning remain essential for building a sustainable acting career.
He said he does not support individuals entering the profession without adequate training, advising them to attend film school before seeking assistance from established actors.
Reflecting on his journey, the veteran actor noted that his career was shaped by academic and professional development, including mentorship and additional training outside Nigeria.
Solade lamented the growing trend of people becoming actors overnight due to the accessibility of Nollywood but maintained that professional competence comes through study, practice and experience.
Having worked in the industry since 1977, he described himself as a trained professional and also cautioned young creatives against drug abuse, urging them to remain disciplined in both their personal and professional lives.