Daniel Etim-Effiong explains why kissing scenes are common in Nollywood, emphasizing audience demand, market trends, and creative storytelling alternatives
Actor and director Daniel Etim-Effiong has opened up about why kissing scenes are common in Nigerian movies.
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In a recent interview on Rubbin’ Minds, he explained that such scenes are primarily driven by audience demand and market trends, with producers using them because they sell.
“The average Nollywood script says, ‘kiss passionately’ or ‘hug,’ and they do it on purpose because that’s what they’re selling, especially on certain platforms. That’s what the audience wants, it’s demand and supply,” he said.
Etim-Effiong suggested that the industry could benefit from exploring **alternative ways of expressing intimacy** and affection on screen.
“A braver way is to explore other forms of intimacy and create new ways to express affection,” he added.
The actor has faced public scrutiny for his romantic roles, particularly after a passionate kissing scene with co-star Bolaji Ogunmola in the promotion of Summer Rain.
“People feel it’s become one too many, but the question should go to the producers. Why are they expressing affection and intimacy only a certain way?” Etim-Effiong remarked.
Etim-Effiong emphasized that his faith and family guide his career decisions, explaining that he prays before acting in scenes involving intimacy.
“I get all my inspiration from God. I go on my knees and pray before I go to set and kiss. My family is my garden, then my work. Acting is a form of worship, and a way to tell inspiring stories,” he said.
His wife, Toyosi Etim-Effiong, also expressed support for his career choices, stating she is unbothered by his on-screen roles.
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“There are several other ways you can show affection. There are downsides to everything, but when you’re focused, you don’t let naysayers get to you. You just focus on your business and do what you have to do,” he added.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
