Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde Rejects Forced Dance Routines for Movie Promotions, Calls for Professionalism

Veteran Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde has voiced her opposition to the growing trend of forced dance routines as a primary tool for movie promotion. Speaking during a recent appearance on TVC Entertainment, the screen icon clarified that while she personally enjoys dancing for fun, she draws a firm line at participating in promotional stunts that feel artificial or obligatory. This stance highlights a growing debate within the African film industry regarding the professional boundaries of actors during marketing campaigns and the efficacy of viral social media trends. During the interview, Omotola emphasized the importance of organic participation, arguing that the pressure placed on cast members to perform for publicity can be counterproductive. She noted that when promotional activities feel coerced, they often result in backlash from the audience who can sense the lack of authenticity in the performance. According to the actress, her core responsibility to a production ends with delivering a high-quality performance on screen. She firmly asserted that the technical and creative aspects of movie marketing should be handled by dedicated professionals rather than placing the burden of viral content creation on the actors themselves. The veteran actress's comments reflect a desire for greater professionalism and a clearer distinction between artistic performance and commercial marketing within Nollywood. By advocating for a separation between acting roles and promotional obligations, Omotola is calling for a shift in how the industry approaches audience engagement. Her refusal to engage in forced dance rituals serves as a reminder that while social media trends are influential, they should not compromise the professional dignity of performers. As the industry continues to evolve, her perspective may influence how future promotional strategies are designed, prioritizing authenticity and professional marketing expertise over mandatory social media stunts.