Nigerian actress Uche Montana has taken aim at casting directors and producers in Nollywood, urging them to stop letting online popularity dictate who gets roles on screen. She argued that genuine performance skills must take precedence over digital metrics when filmmakers build their casts.
The screen star made these remarks during a conversation with media personality Davibes Olamide, according to Vanguard. Montana expressed deep concern over the industry's habit of prioritising online clout, insisting that film executives should return to evaluating performers by their craft and delivery.
Discussing the ongoing trend in the film sector, Montana did not mince words about what needs to change. She stated plainly that the Nigerian movie industry must stop picking numbers on Instagram over talent, warning that relying on social media following hurts artistic standards.
Her comments reflect a broader debate within Nollywood, where experienced actors and movie lovers frequently voice concern that influencers are often cast ahead of trained professionals merely to generate online buzz and cinema ticket sales.
Aside from casting practices, Montana addressed the misconceptions people hold about life in the public eye. She pushed back against the assumption that public figures enjoy endless perks without spending money, remarking that the biggest lie about being a celebrity is that you get things for free.
The screen performer also reflected on the limits of public status, observing that renown cannot buy essential life blessings such as health and personal peace of mind. She explained that authentic respect from people only comes when an individual has true value to offer, rather than superficial fame.
Touching on the balance between ambition and personal relationships, Montana gave an honest perspective on career drive. When asked if she would pursue professional success even if it meant losing companions, she responded by asking if she would be broke without her friends, explaining that she does not want to be broke.
At the same time, the actress insisted that meaningful relationships remain irreplaceable. She noted that one cannot quantify friendship with the things of the world because good friendship means the world, stressing that material achievements should never destroy sincere human connections.
