Funke Akindele Reflects On Humble Beginnings, Says Tyler Perry Inspired Her

Award-winning actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has reflected on her remarkable rise in Nollywood, revealing that she taught herself filmmaking by watching movies and crediting Hollywood filmmaker Tyler Perry as one of her biggest inspirations.

Speaking in an interview with BellaNaija, Akindele looked back on her early days in the industry, describing herself as an inexperienced storyteller who simply wanted to create meaningful films.

“Looking back at the Funke Akindele in Jenifa, I was just young, inexperienced and self-taught when it comes to film production,” she said.

The box office record-holder explained that she never attended film school, but instead learnt the craft by observing film sets, joining the Yoruba movie industry and studying successful productions.

“I didn’t go to school to study film. I just watched films. I actually learnt to write from watching Tyler Perry movies and series. That’s my role model. I really love him so much. I can’t wait to meet him and work with him,” she revealed.

Akindele said the success she enjoys today is the result of continuous learning and refusing to become complacent.

“Starting in Jenifa, I was just there, simply an underdog that didn’t want to be seen. I just wanted to tell good stories. Today I am here because I keep reinventing myself. I ask myself what the next thing to do is. Don’t be too comfortable in a position,” she said.

She also credited collaboration and humility for helping her remain relevant over the years.

“I keep collaborating with professionals in the film industry. I don’t believe I know it all. That has helped me over the years. I’m not perfect,” she added.

Akindele’s candid reflections have resonated with fans online, with many praising her journey from a self-taught actress to one of Nollywood’s most successful filmmakers and celebrating her commitment to growth, reinvention and lifelong learning.