Nigerian actress and film producer Blessing Obasi has opened up about her emotional journey in Nollywood, revealing the painful rejections she faced — including being told by a respected director that she was “too ugly to act.”

In a candid interview with Saturday Beats, the 43-year-old actress detailed the struggles she encountered while trying to break into the Nigerian movie industry.

“I even remember when a popular director I deeply respected once told me I was too ugly to be in front of the camera. But look at me now,” she said.

Blessing, who is married to fellow actor Stan Nze, shared how her breakthrough moment felt like divine timing.

“It was a moment of deep gratitude, like everything was finally starting to make sense,” she said, recalling the early days when she almost gave up on her dream.

She credited a sermon by Pastor Sam Adeyemi during a programme at Elevation Church as the turning point that renewed her resolve.

“He said, ‘You’re here today, and you’ve told God that entertainment isn’t for you, that you don’t think you’ll make it. But I’m here to tell you it will make sense. Stay put.’ I held on to those words and kept going.”

The Momiwa star described her journey in the entertainment industry as one of “grace,” adding that her best friend and support system played a crucial role in keeping her motivated.

“Even when others advised me to quit acting and get a ‘real’ job, she stood by me. She would always say, ‘My akwam (egg), when you go blow, you go blow.’”

Early Passion, Family Challenges, and Career Detour

Blessing’s love for acting began in secondary school. However, she faced early resistance from her family. After an audition recommended by a friend named Dorothy, her mother insisted she cut her hair and abandon acting to focus on academics.

Despite taking a break to complete her education and work in a top oil company, Blessing eventually returned to her passion, starting with small roles and gradually building her career.

On Turning Down Roles and Staying True to Her Faith

Blessing Obasi emphasized that she is selective about the roles she takes, stating:

“Yes, I have turned down some roles. I’m not going to star in a film that does not honour God. I don’t subscribe to nudity in films. If a role doesn’t align with my value system, I’ll simply decline it respectfully.”

Deep Faith and Personal Relationship with God

The actress revealed that her spiritual life is central to her identity, especially after the loss of her mother.

“We are rooted in Christ and we partner with the Holy Spirit in our relationship. Our friendship is one of the most beautiful things we share. Since my mum passed, he is the only one I can tell the truth without judgment.”

Filmography and Recent Achievements

Blessing starred in the 2024 Amazon Prime film Momiwa, directed by Biodun Stephen, and recently made her debut as a producer with Radio Voice, a faith-based drama that premiered in cinemas on April 11, 2025. The film features veteran actor Richard Mofe-Damijo and explores themes of redemption and second chances.

On Marriage and Breaking Societal Expectations

Speaking on her marriage to Stan Nze and becoming a mother later in life, Blessing said:

“Getting married at an older age wasn’t just a choice; it was a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and breaking free from societal norms that tried to dictate my happiness.”