Nollywood actor Lanre Adediwura, best known for his role as Olumide Kuti in the popular television series Wura, has opened up about his decision not to return for the show's fourth season. In a candid interview on TVC Entertainment, the actor disclosed that his involvement with the series did not bring the financial benefits he had anticipated.
Financial Struggles After Wura
Adediwura revealed that after leaving Wura, he faced significant financial hardship. He stated that he was spending more than he earned during his time on the show and came out poorer. The actor credited YouTube for helping him regain stability, noting that for six months after the series ended, he could barely afford basic necessities. He said: "I came out of 'Wura', and I was spending more than I made. I came out poorer. For six months after 'Wura', I could have practically gone to a neighbour for Garri. It was YouTube that got me the stability."
Unfulfilled Promises and Missed Opportunities
The actor explained that while the role gave him exposure, the production did not fulfill its promises. He claimed that during contract negotiations, he was assured he would not need to seek other roles, but the 11-month shooting schedule prevented him from accepting other projects. This included a missed opportunity to play Aláàfin Abiodun in the production House of Gaa, for which he had already done translation work. Adediwura stated: "The role gave me everything I wanted, yes, maybe the production itself did not give me what I wanted because everything promised was not fulfilled. This is the first time anyone has heard this from me."
No Legal Repercussions Expected
Adediwura also addressed potential legal issues, arguing that his public statements would not lead to any trouble. He asserted that he contributed original nuances to his character that are still being used in the series.
Reactions from Netizens
The interview sparked a wide range of reactions on social media. Some commenters expressed gratitude for the exposure the series gave Adediwura. For instance, user damexmrcoded wrote: "If Wura didn't give you the opportunity and publicity, nobody would have known you enough to watch your YouTube videos. So be grateful regardless." Another user, folyrichycakesandpastries, added: "But wura made people know you, be grateful."
Others criticized the changes in the show's cast for season 4. User dre_proserfina commented: "Season 4 was so unnecessary. Most of the actors that started the show couldn't even continue, especially Mide and Tumi." Similarly, sirminzy_ noted: "Africa Magic ruined my viewing pleasure with Wura because they changed Tumi, Mide, and Eve. I couldn't keep up with season 4 after one episode."
Lead Actress on Wura's New Season
In related news, lead actress Scarlet Gomez shared insights about the fourth season, which premiered on March 30. She stated that her character, Wura Amoo-Adeleke, would reveal a more emotional and vulnerable side. Gomez explained: "I think in this season, they get to see her in ways that they haven't seen before. Now she becomes more emotional, more vulnerable."
