A STREAMING WEEKEND WITH ADE LAOYE

Nollywood is renowned for its dynamic landscape, releasing ten movies monthly. With such a high output, it's easy for memorable moments or standout films to be overlooked. However, a brilliant performance is unforgettable for those who appreciate skill and talent, especially when it garners critical acclaim, nominations, wins, or impressive global streaming ratings.

In 2023, Editi Effiong's movie "Black Book" made history on Netflix, securing the 3rd spot on its global chart with over 20 million viewers. While Nollywood legend Richard Mofe-Damijo’s captivating performance as the leading man contributed immensely to its success, Ade Laoye's stellar portrayal as the supporting lead truly shone. Her nuanced acting brought exceptional depth to the film, solidifying her status as one of Nollywood's finest talents.

Growing up in an artistically inclined family, Laoye, a native of Ede in Osun State, Nigeria, studied Theatre Arts at Pennsylvania State University, where she received invaluable advice. In a 2016 interview with the Punch, she recalled, “In acting school, they often tell you not to go into this business if you’re looking for a shortcut to fame and fortune because the road is long and hard.” This wisdom became her guiding light, helping her navigate the fiercely competitive climate of Nollywood—a journey filled with challenges and triumphs.

Fresh out of school in 2014, Laoye began with a role in Emem Isong’s romantic drama "Knocking on Heaven’s Door." In 2015, she appeared in the Lunch Time Heroes and African Magic series, Hush. Featuring various roles while developing an impressive resume kept her busy and prepared until 2018 when she was cast in Ebonylife’s legal family drama, "Castle & Castle." Laoye worked alongside A-list actors, including Richard Mofe-Damijo. Her role as Morenike Athol Willams played closely to Mofe-Damijo’s Tega Castle, sparking an on-screen chemistry that likely inspired the producers of Black Book to cast them in lead roles five years later.

Always guided by the principle of 'no shortcuts to fame and fortune,' Laoye continued to build her resume with multi-faceted character roles that appealed to her creative instincts. Her talents were not limited to movies; she also ventured into stage acting, becoming a lead cast member in the acclaimed musicals "Saro the Musical" and "Waka the Musical."

Her first lead role came in the 2020 romantic comedy "Finding Hubby." In 2021, she landed a major role in Jadesola Osiberu and Tunde Kelani’s biopic "Ayinla." That same year, she starred in Kunle Afolayan’s A Naija Christmas and Bolanle Austen-Peters’ Collision.

Ade Laoye is not just one of Nollywood's finest talents but a rare gem steadily ascending the steps of success, focusing on excellence and earning her rightful place in the industry.

Screennolly has curated a mix of four movies starring this remarkable actress for your Streaming Weekend. Enjoy!

- Jimi D Baldheaded Guy

Ayinla Netflix