In an emotional chat with Saturday Sun, veteran Nollywood star Joke Silva, wife of Sir Olu Jacobs, talked about the effects of ongoing death rumors about her husband. She also shared her reasons for avoiding sexually suggestive roles during her career.
On the topic of Nollywood’s cultural identity, Silva asserts that the industry is maintaining its cultural core, even with some concerns. She notes that although culture is evolving in a globalized world, streaming platforms support true cultural expression, which she views as a way to enrich Nollywood’s unique character.
Addressing the limited opportunities for older actors, Silva emphasizes the need for more diverse stories that include middle-aged and older characters. She points out that the experiences of people over 50 are frequently overlooked. By focusing on their interactions with younger generations, Nollywood can enhance its storytelling.
Speculations Regarding Olu Jacobs’ Passing:
Silva describes the repeated death rumors about her husband as very distressing and blames them on clickbait. She mentions that these rumors put unnecessary pressure on her family and friends. To deal with the emotional burden, Silva turns off her phone during these situations and trusts certain people to communicate the truth.
Managing Work and Personal Life: Silva attributes her ability to juggle a demanding career and home duties to a reliable support network. She focuses on being there for her family, takes frequent breaks, and values the experience rather than just the outcomes.
Regarding Public Image:
Silva understands the need to keep up a public image, but she works hard to keep her personal life separate from her public one. She knows it’s important to have a clear line between the two.
Regarding the Economy and Accountability of the Government:
Silva shows concern for Nigeria’s economic challenges but avoids placing direct blame on the current leaders. She stresses the need to keep government initiatives going and wishes that successful projects from earlier administrations will be developed further instead of being overlooked.