Veteran Nollywood actor Kehinde Olasehinde, popularly known as Pa James, has opened up about his long-standing relationship with renowned producer Wale Adenuga, offering rare insight into his career journey, financial growth, and the evolving nature of television production in Nigeria.
In an interview with media personality Lucky Udu, the actor, widely recognised for his role in the iconic television series Papa Ajasco and Company, spoke candidly about how the show transformed his life and elevated his status within the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Pa James explained that his involvement in the long-running comedy series marked a turning point in his career, significantly increasing his popularity beyond the Yoruba film space where he initially built his reputation. According to him, the exposure he gained from the show introduced him to a broader audience across Nigeria and beyond.
“The show gave me more popularity than my earlier Yoruba films,” he said, reflecting on the impact of Papa Ajasco and Company on his career trajectory.
Beyond fame, the actor also highlighted the financial benefits he derived from working on the production. He revealed that his earnings from the show enabled him to achieve a personal milestone by purchasing his first car, an accomplishment he considers a defining moment in his early career.
“Financially, he tried for me. I bought my first car when I started working with him,” he noted, acknowledging the support he received from Wale Adenuga.
Pa James described Adenuga as a supportive figure who has maintained a professional relationship with him over the years. Despite changes in the industry, he confirmed that he still collaborates with the veteran producer, although the frequency and structure of work have evolved significantly.
“I still work with Wale Adenuga. He has been good to me,” he said, emphasising the enduring nature of their partnership.
However, the actor also pointed out that the dynamics of television production have shifted over time. While earlier years were characterised by consistent work and regular filming schedules, current conditions have introduced longer gaps between productions.
“Back then, we worked consistently, but now we may shoot a few episodes and not be called again for up to two years,” he explained.
This change, he noted, has created new challenges for actors, particularly those who rely heavily on periodic television roles. As a result, many industry professionals are now compelled to diversify their income streams to remain financially stable.
“These days, you need a side hustle to survive,” Pa James added, highlighting the economic realities facing actors in today’s entertainment landscape.
The veteran actor also addressed contractual and branding limitations associated with his popular on-screen identity. He revealed that the name “Pa James,” which became widely recognised through Papa Ajasco and Company, has been trademarked, restricting its use outside the production.
According to him, while he is free to take on roles in other films and projects, he is not permitted to use the name that has become synonymous with his public image.
“I can feature in other movies, but I’m not allowed to use the name ‘Pa James’ because it has been trademarked,” he explained.
This development underscores the growing importance of intellectual property rights within the entertainment industry, where character names and identities are increasingly protected as valuable assets. While such protections benefit production companies, they can also present limitations for actors seeking to leverage their established brand.
Pa James further provided a comparison of his earnings over the years, illustrating both growth and the realities of inflation within the industry. He disclosed that at the start of his career on the show, he earned N2,500 per episode, a figure that has since increased to N45,000 per episode.
“When I started, I earned N2,500 per episode. Now, it’s N45,000 per episode, and usually about 10 episodes,” he said.
While the increase reflects progress, his comments suggest that the financial structure of television production, combined with irregular work schedules, still presents challenges for long-term sustainability.
The actor’s reflections offer a broader perspective on the evolution of Nollywood, particularly in the television sector. Once driven by consistent production cycles and widespread viewership, the industry now faces new dynamics shaped by changing audience preferences, digital platforms, and economic pressures.
Despite these challenges, Pa James remains a respected figure in Nigerian entertainment, with a career spanning decades. His contributions to comedy and television have left a lasting impact, and his role in Papa Ajasco and Company continues to be remembered as one of the defining performances in Nigerian television history.
Industry observers note that veterans like Pa James play a crucial role in preserving the legacy of Nollywood while also adapting to its changing landscape. Their experiences provide valuable lessons for younger actors navigating the complexities of the industry.
His story also highlights the importance of mentorship and collaboration, as seen in his long-term relationship with Wale Adenuga. Such partnerships have been instrumental in shaping careers and sustaining productions over time.
As Nollywood continues to evolve, the experiences shared by actors like Pa James serve as a reminder of both the opportunities and challenges within the industry. From early struggles to moments of success, his journey reflects the resilience required to build and sustain a career in entertainment.
While the structure of the industry may have changed, his passion for acting and dedication to his craft remain evident. His reflections not only celebrate past achievements but also shed light on the realities of modern-day filmmaking and television production in Nigeria.
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