Tayo Faniran Addresses Romantic Scene With Iyabo Ojo
Nollywood actor and former Big Brother Africa Season 9 star, Akintayo Faniran, has spoken about his romantic on-screen moments, particularly his recent scene with actress Iyabo Ojo. In an interview with Oyinmomo TV, Faniran was asked about the chemistry in their scene from the movie Labake Olododo, which had sparked curiosity online.
The interviewer asked: “After that romantic scene with Iyabo Ojo in Labake Olododo, people are already asking if the chemistry was too real. You acted too convincingly to hope you’re not considering Paulo now.” Responding, Faniran praised Iyabo Ojo’s beauty but emphasised that their relationship was strictly professional.
“Iyabo Ojo is a beautiful woman. There’s hardly any man who won’t attest to the fact that she’s pleasing to the eye. The relationship between us is a respectful one,” he said.
Faniran Recalls Awkward Scene With Shaffy Bello
Faniran also recalled a past experience working with Shaffy Bello on the TV series Tinsel, where he admitted he struggled to remain professional during an intimate scene because her children were present. “I was supposed to be really intimate with her, but I wasn’t as professional as I am now. I was not comfortable because her grown children were there watching,” he said.
Iyabo Ojo Defends Use of Black Magic in Nollywood
In related news, Iyabo Ojo recently made bold remarks about the relevance of black magic in African storytelling. Speaking in an interview with BBC 1Xtra about her movie The Return of Arinzo, Ojo addressed critics who dismiss Nollywood productions because of special effects.
“What do you say to people who might not take Nollywood seriously because of those special effects?” she was asked. Responding, Ojo explained that African cinema must remain true to its roots. “Well, it's Africa, and we have to tell our story the way it is, no matter how much we want to westernise it or modernise it. There are voodoo in Africa, and they work. So whether you like it or not or accept it, it's what we call Ayetta,” she said.
She emphasised that filmmakers cannot shy away from cultural realities, noting that showcasing elements like voodoo reflects the imagination and creativity of Nigerians. “Sometimes it's comical, but sometimes we're being dead serious. This is what it could be,” she added.
Box Office Success for Iyabo Ojo’s Movie
Meanwhile, The Return of Arinzo has recorded impressive box office numbers. According to distributor FilmOne Entertainment, the movie has grossed N311.5 million at the cinemas. In an appreciation message, FilmOne wrote, “The Return of Arinzo grosses 311.5 Million and counting, The Return of Arinzo maintains its spot as the number one film for four consecutive weekends. Thank you, West Africa, for showing up and showing out. Your love is taking this film higher and higher!”
Reacting to the achievement, Iyabo Ojo, who is currently outside the country, shared a video featuring actress Mercy Aigbe and her daughter Priscilla, and expressed hope that the movie would hit half a billion naira.
Netizens React to Tayo Faniran’s Interview
Legit.ng compiled reactions from netizens:
- @The__Sekani said: “Fvcking love this guy! The way he talks, esp speaking Yoruba.”
- @pikaj007 said: “Her name is Iyabo Ojo or you add 'miss' to it in Yoruba. It’s an interview, you people should stop all this aunty stuff. If she no call her aunty now, that one too fit say she dey disrespect am. Only few people are professional in this side of the world. It is well sha. Every time, Aunty Iyabo, boda Odun, Uncle Femi, Aunty Toyin, Aunty Funke. Ko necessary jare.”
- @arike_20 said: “It is the transparency for me. A lot of actors won't admit their past awkwardness on set, but him sharing that old experience with Shaffy Bello makes his current professionalism with Iyabo Ojo even more impressive. Great acting will always make people think it's real life.”
- @waleBernard1 said: “I like this guy. Na down to earth guy.”
Iyabo Ojo Sends Heartfelt Message to Toyin Abraham
Legit.ng also reported that Toyin Abraham and Iyabo Ojo dismissed viral speculations of a feud between them following the drama at the premiere of The Return of Arinzo. Abraham showed support for Ojo, and Ojo expressed gratitude, referring to Abraham as her sister.
