Deyemi Okanlawon has firmly established himself as an A-list actor through his compelling performances and versatile roles. Renowned for his talent and charismatic screen presence, he has become a household name in Nollywood.
It comes as no surprise that Okanlawon, a trained chemical engineer who also worked in banking, ended up in the acting world. Despite excelling academically, he always pursued acting as a hobby. At the age of five, he participated in school plays and by nine, he was featured in a nationwide TV commercial. Even while studying engineering at the University of Lagos, he found time to join various theatre groups.
From 2010 to 2011, armed with a New York Film Academy certificate for acting, Deyemi Okanlawon honed his skills by featuring in and co-producing a variety of short films. In 2012, he made his feature film debut in Journey to Self, a testament to his versatility as he starred alongside Dakore Akande and Nse Ikpe-Etim. His work in Short films was recognised in 2013 when he won the Best Actor award at the In Short Film Festival, a milestone that propelled him to pursue acting full-time. Over the next seven years, he showcased his versatility by starring in over 50 movies, each role a testament to his adaptability and talent.
Deyemi expanded his career into business by creating a production and management company that provides consultancy services. In 2020, he starred in Funke Akindele’s critically acclaimed and box office hit Omo Ghetto: The Saga, which led to a Best Actor win at the 2022 AMVCA Awards. 2021 was equally fruitful, with major roles in KOB: The Return of the King, Castle & Castle, The Prophetess, and a co-lead in Kunle Afolayan’s Swallow. He cemented his status with other major performances, including Sista alongside Kehinde Bankole and Bisola Aiyeola.
From a child actor to a leading Nollywood star, Deyemi Okanlawon's journey showcases his remarkable talent, work ethic and relentless dedication to his craft.
Screennolly invites you to spend a Streaming Weekend with one of Nollywood's brightest stars, @deyemitheactor
Swallow Netflix
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| Okanlawon stars alongside Niyola in Kunle Afolayan's 2021 heartfelt drama |
The Wildflower Netflix
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| With Damilare Kuku in 2022, emotional drama directed by Biodun Stephen |
Imade Youtube
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| Okanlawon starred alongside Mo Bimpe Adedimeji in 2023 |
Sista Prime Video
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| With Kehinde Bankole in Biodun Stephen's critically acclaimed drama |