Veteran Nigerian actor Yemi Solade recently stirred conversations online after declaring that he is senior to Pete Edochie in acting. During an interview or public statement (depending on the source), Solade emphasized that although Pete Edochie is widely respected and often seen as a legend in Nollywood, he (Yemi Solade) actually began acting professionally before Edochie became prominent in the film industry.
Key Points Yemi Solade Made:
- He claimed that he was already involved in professional stage and television acting before Pete Edochie gained widespread fame through his iconic role in the NTA adaptation of Things Fall Apart in the 1980s.
- Yemi Solade stressed that acting isn’t just about age or popularity, but about one’s entry point into the profession, training, and years of experience.
- He seemed to imply that his career roots lie in traditional theatre and drama, possibly referring to his background in Yoruba stage drama before Nollywood became mainstream.
Why This Statement Matters:
- Pete Edochie is often considered a “father figure” in Nigerian cinema due to his commanding presence, wisdom-filled roles, and deep voice.
- Solade’s comment challenges the common perception of who holds seniority in Nollywood, prompting a broader conversation about what defines seniority in the acting profession — age, fame, or formal training and early involvement.
Public Reaction:
The statement has drawn mixed reactions. While some agree with Solade’s timeline and acknowledge his contributions to Yoruba theatre and Nigerian television, others believe the comment was unnecessary or disrespectful given Pete Edochie’s revered status.