…vows “no amount of money will change my stance”
Our Entertainment Desk
Nollywood actor, Jim Iyke has revealed that he once chased a movie producer away with a machete after the producer offered him “millions” to play a gay role in a film.
The actor, widely referred to by fans as the “Nollywood Baddest,” made the claim in a recent statement that has since gone viral on social media.
“I am an African man and I love women and nyash. I can’t roll with gay guys. I can never play gay roles in movies,” Iyke said.
According to him, the unnamed producer specifically asked him to wear a skirt for the part.
“One producer asked me to wear a skirt and play a gay role in a movie. I chased him with machete. Immediately the producer saw me coming at him with the machete, he took off and I told him ‘keep running till you find what you’re looking for,’” he recounted.
“I’m too masculine for things like that and no amount of money can change my mind about it,” Iyke added.
The comment has sparked fresh conversation online about representation, masculinity, and the kinds of roles offered to leading men in Nollywood.
Iyke, 49, has built a career over more than two decades as one of Nigeria’s most recognizable actors. He rose to prominence in the early 2000s with roles in Last Flight To Abuja, A Million Tears, and The Prince’s Bride, and is known for playing tough, action-driven characters. Outside acting, he has also worked as a producer and entrepreneur.
He did not name the producer or the project in question, and there has been no independent confirmation of the incident. Attempts to reach representatives for comment were not immediately successful as of press time.
The actor’s remarks come at a time when Nollywood continues to expand its storytelling range, with more filmmakers experimenting with diverse characters and themes to appeal to both local and international audiences. Discussions around sexuality on screen remain sensitive in many parts of Nigeria, where cultural and religious views heavily influence public opinion and media content.
Reactions on social media have been divided. Some fans praised Iyke for “standing by his convictions,” while others criticized the use of a weapon to respond to a casting offer, and questioned the language used to describe the proposed role.
This is not the first time Iyke has spoken candidly about boundaries in his career. Over the years he has addressed topics ranging from on-set discipline to typecasting, often framing himself as an actor who prioritizes brand and personal values over paychecks.
According to the veteran star, his decision was final and: “No amount of money can change my mind about it”.
