XANDERXO ENTERTAINMENT
Nollywood actress Habibat Jinadu has opened up about the pressure she experienced early in her acting career, revealing that she resorted to skin bleaching after repeatedly being told that her complexion was unsuitable for certain movie roles.
In an interview with BBC Yoruba, the actress explained that she encountered challenges securing opportunities because, according to her experience, some filmmakers appeared to favour fair-skinned and fuller actresses. Jinadu said she was made to feel that her darker complexion was a disadvantage in an industry where appearance could influence casting decisions.
She disclosed that she eventually began bleaching her skin in an attempt to improve her chances of getting roles. According to the actress, the decision appeared to bring more acting opportunities, but it came with consequences for her skin.
Jinadu said the bleaching process left her skin vulnerable and more susceptible to injuries. She eventually stopped the practice in 2023 while pregnant, choosing not to continue with a routine that had affected her skin.
The actress also spoke about the criticism she faced after returning to her natural complexion, revealing that she received insulting comments from some people.
Her account has renewed conversations about colourism, beauty standards and the pressures actors may face in the entertainment industry. While her experience does not represent every filmmaker or production, it raises important questions about how physical appearance influences casting and the opportunities available to performers.
