In a heartfelt interview with Saturday Sun, veteran Nollywood actress Joke Silva, wife of veteran actor, Sir Olu Jacobs, shared insights on the impact of persistent death rumors surrounding her husband and explained why she has consistently avoided sexually suggestive roles throughout her career.
On Nollywood’s Cultural Identity: Silva believes that Nollywood is not losing its cultural essence despite concerns. She explains that while culture is evolving in today’s globalized world, streaming platforms actually encourage authentic cultural expression, which she sees as enriching rather than eroding Nollywood’s unique identity.
On Roles for Veteran Actors: Addressing the scarcity of roles for older actors, Silva calls for more diverse storytelling that includes middle-aged and older characters, whose life experiences are often overlooked. She advocates for stories that reflect the experiences of people over 50 and their relationships with younger generations, noting that this shift could add depth to Nollywood’s narratives.
On Death Rumors Surrounding Olu Jacobs: Silva describes the frequent death rumors about her husband as deeply distressing and attributes them to clickbait tactics. These rumors, she says, create unnecessary stress for her family and friends. To manage the emotional toll, Silva turns off her phone during such incidents, relying on trusted individuals to help clarify the truth publicly.
Balancing Career and Personal Life: Silva credits a strong support system for helping her balance a high-profile career with her responsibilities at home. She prioritizes emotional availability for her family, takes regular breaks, and embraces the journey rather than focusing solely on end goals.
On Public Image: While Silva acknowledges the pressure to maintain a public image, she strives to separate her personal life from her public persona, recognizing the importance of keeping a clear boundary between the two.
On the Economy and Government Accountability: Silva expresses concern about Nigeria’s economic struggles, though she is cautious about directly blaming the current administration. Instead, she emphasizes the need for continuity in government initiatives and hopes that positive projects from previous administrations are built upon rather than dismissed.
Philanthropic Interests: Silva is deeply committed to women’s rights, particularly regarding workplace treatment and representation in media. She highlights the need for improved engagement terms in the industry and is passionate about advocating for more nuanced, respectful portrayals of women on screen.
Avoidance of Romantic or Sexual Roles: Silva’s choice to steer clear of explicit scenes is intentional, rooted in her belief that storytelling can convey sensuality without overt content. She feels that such scenes should serve the narrative rather than rely on shock value, advocating instead for creative approaches that respect both the story and the audience.
Silva’s reflections reveal her as an actress deeply engaged with both her craft and her personal values, advocating for meaningful change in Nollywood and beyond.