Actor Deyemi Okanlawon Reflects on Difference Between Highest Grossing and Earning in Nollywood

Nollywood actor Deyemi Okanlawon recently sparked conversations on social media with his thoughts on the difference between being a highest-grossing actor and a highest-earning one. In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Deyemi emphasized that understanding this distinction has profoundly changed his outlook on his career and urged his fellow actors to set their goals accordingly.

Deyemi’s remarks come just months after his colleague, Timini Egbuson, celebrated being named one of the highest-grossing actors in the Nigerian movie industry. While Timini’s achievement was widely recognized, Deyemi’s post has led to discussions about the true value of gross earnings versus actual income, with many fans referencing Timini’s earlier statements.

The conversation quickly gained traction online, with fans and followers chiming in to share their opinions. Some fans pointed out that gross earnings, which refer to the total revenue a film generates, can be misleading if not considered alongside the production costs. As one commenter noted, a movie with high gross revenue might not necessarily translate to higher earnings if the production costs were substantial.

Others speculated that Deyemi’s post was a subtle jab at Timini, though Deyemi did not directly mention any names. Some fans humorously asked Timini if he understood the difference, while others defended both actors, stating that both gross earnings and net income hold significant prestige in the industry.

In addition to the ongoing debate, Deyemi also reflected on his career in a separate post, expressing his frustration at not having won a major award despite his long-standing presence in Nollywood. He mentioned that while awards are often seen as validation, he chooses to measure his success by the quality of his work and the personal growth he experiences.

Deyemi’s candid reflections have sparked a broader discussion in the Nollywood community about what truly defines success in the film industry. As actors and filmmakers navigate the complexities of fame, earnings, and recognition, Deyemi’s insights remind them of the importance of setting meaningful and achievable goals.