The Buzz: Trending Entertainment News
In this week’s roundup of entertainment highlights, the Nigerian creative scene has been buzzing with thought-provoking conversations, emotional revelations, and a tragic loss. From veteran stars sharing life lessons to shocking personal confessions, here’s what’s making headlines.
Tina Mba Urges Actors to Choose Supportive Partners
Veteran actress Tina Mba has offered heartfelt advice to her colleagues in the entertainment industry on the importance of choosing life partners who support their career ambitions. Speaking on Lights, Camera – It’s My Turn, Mba warned that the red flags often appear before marriage but are ignored due to love or societal pressure.
Drawing from her personal experience, she advocated for open conversations about career goals before tying the knot and even suggested couples sign an “undertaking” affirming mutual support for each other’s professional lives. “Marriage should not be the end of your dreams,” she declared, urging women to prioritise their ambitions.
Mba described herself as an “antique babe” and encouraged women to embrace self-love, individuality, and self-validation. “Just be true to yourself. Don’t go for the dazzles,” she added.
Jumoke George Opens Up on Six-Year Homelessness
In a deeply emotional revelation, veteran actress Jumoke George disclosed that she has been homeless for the past six years, living in a church after being evicted due to high rent and worsening health. Speaking on the TalkToB Show, George said she had to keep her living situation a secret due to shame and embarrassment.
“I sleep on a mattress inside the church. Mummy church gives me food and buys drugs for me,” she revealed. The actress also disclosed her struggle with illness, which hindered her ability to work consistently, and her financial burdens, including N400,000 in needed medical tests.
Her pain is further compounded by the disappearance of her first child, Adeola, who has been missing for four years. Despite a brief phone call where Adeola asked for forgiveness, her whereabouts remain unknown. George is currently caring for her grandchildren in the absence of their mother and father.
Her son, Ife, has reportedly borrowed nearly N2 million to support her, further adding to the family’s burden. “Pain is not good. Please people pray for me,” she pleaded, calling on Nigerians and fellow mothers for prayers and support.
Veekee James Accuses Senegalese Designer of Design Theft
Celebrity Nigerian designer Veekee James has publicly called out Senegalese designer King Corset for allegedly replicating one of her viral designs without credit. Taking to Instagram, Veekee expressed outrage that her work was copied “100%” and even featured in a documentary.
“The reason why a lot of you will never grow… is your lack of originality,” she wrote. “What’s the difference between you and a thief?” The fashion entrepreneur emphasised the need for authenticity in the industry and accused some of her peers of laziness and intellectual theft. Despite her anger, she sarcastically wished King Corset well, calling the incident “free publicity.”
Davido Declares Lagos Has the Best Nightlife
Afrobeats superstar Davido sparked both praise and criticism with his bold declaration that Lagos has the best nightlife in the world. Speaking on the Culture Knock Out podcast, he cited the city’s vibrant party scene and restaurants as unmatched.
“There’s so many interesting things to do in Lagos… I feel like we have the best nightlife in the world,” he said.
The internet, however, had mixed reactions. While some praised his enthusiasm and consistent promotion of Lagos, others raised concerns about safety and affordability. Critics also speculated that the statement was an attempt at damage control following past comments seen as critical of Nigeria.
Tragic Loss: Monalisa Stephen Dies from Health Complications
The Nigerian entertainment industry was thrown into mourning with the passing of actress and body positivity advocate Monalisa Stephen. Known for her fierce advocacy on mental health, self-love, and body image, Monalisa reportedly died from complications related to low blood sugar and internal bleeding.
The sad news was confirmed by Seun Oloketuyi, CEO of Best of Nollywood, who stated she passed away in Lagos on Tuesday, May 13. Fans and followers have taken to social media to pay tribute to the late content creator, expressing shock and sadness over her untimely death.
Monalisa had previously been open about her struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts, making her death all the more heartbreaking for her community of supporters.
Hafsoh Isiaq is a graduate of Linguistics. An avid writer committed to creative, high-quality research and news reportage. She has considerable experience in writing and reporting across a variety of platforms including print and online.
