Spotlighting notable, active actors above 70 who continue to excel in challenging roles on both the big and small screen. To qualify, they must be 70 or older and have recently appeared in movies or be currently working on one.
Chief Lere Paimo: { Eda Onile Ola}
At 84, veteran actor Chief Lere Paimo, known as Eda Onile Ola, is still actively working. He will feature as ‘Adedibu’ in the biopic titled “Adedibu, Alagbara Ibadan.” Chief Paimo has appeared in four other movies in the past year and gained fame for his role as ‘Eda’ in the epic play “Everyman.”
Taiwo Ajai-Lycett:
At 82, Taiwo Ajai-Lycett, a legendary actress, poet, and philanthropist, remains unstoppable. She appeared as Madam Taiwo in the movie “Elesin Oba” and has an extensive acting career both in the UK and Nigeria. Some of her notable works include “Song of a Goat,” “Death and the King’s Horseman,” and Kemi Adetiba’s “King of Boys.”
Esther Idowu-Phillips (Mama Rainbow):
At 81, Esther Idowu Phillips, also known as Iya Rainbow or Mrs. Fabulous, is a veteran actress of both screen and stage. She has appeared in numerous movies, commercials, and received a lifetime achievement award from the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA).
Lanre Hassan (Mama Awero):
Lanre Hassan, popularly known as Iya Awero, is a 73-year-old veteran actress. She earned her nickname through her role in the television comedy series “Comedy Half Hour.” Mama Awero has continued to impress audiences on stage and screen, including her recent appearance in Kemi Adetiba’s “King of Boys.”
Chief Kareem Adepoju (Baba Wande):
At 78, Alhaji Kareem Adepoju, widely known as Baba Wande, is an accomplished actor, producer, and writer. He has been in the industry since 1962 and is renowned for his roles in movies such as “Ti Oluwa Nile” and “Ayo Ni Mofe.” Baba Wande has featured in over 300 movie productions and has also produced many films.
Pete Edochie:
Chief Pete Edochie, at 76, is an iconic actor and broadcaster known for his exceptional talent. He gained prominence for his role as Okonkwo in the NTA adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart.” With over 200 movie appearances, including “Lion Heart” and “Night Bus to Lagos,” he continues to be a force in Nollywood.
Bayo Salami (Oga Bello):
At 71, Chief Bayo Salami, popularly known as Oga Bello, remains relevant in the movie industry. He started his acting career in 1964 and has since produced and appeared in numerous movies, including his recent role in the feature “King of Thieves.”
Peter Fatomilola:
Peter Fatomilola, a 77-year-old veteran stage and screen actor, is still actively working. Known for his roles as a priest in most Yoruba movies, he has been a prolific actor, dramatist, poet, and playwright for over five decades. His recent acting credits include “Gold Statue,” “Rise of the Saints,” and “Love Castle.”
