- Nollywood actor Nkem Owoh is 70 years old today, February 7, 2025
- The popular legendary actor has committed over 3 decades to his acting career since 1987
- TheRadar spotlighted 10 popular Nollywood titles of the actor also known as Osuofia
Renowned for his unforgettable role as Osuofia, Nkem Owoh is a legendary actor in Nollywood who has dedicated over three decades to his craft.
The popular actor’s journey through the world of acting reflects a remarkable evolution, capturing his enduring talent and passion.
With each performance, Nkem Owoh brings characters to life, entertaining audiences on screen to earn his place as an icon in the Nigerian film industry.
Via his official Instagram page, on February 6, Nkem Owoh reflected on turning 70 years today and acknowledged God who has kept him thus far.
“I will be 70 years old tomorrow. God is indeed a great God.” he wrote.
To celebrate the Nollywood legend, TheRadar reminisced on his 10 popular classic film titles that solidified his acting career as an icon.
Reminiscing on 10 classic titles that featured Nkem Owoh
- Things Fall Apart — 1987
The popular Nollywood title Things Fall Apart is adapted from the 1958 debut novel of the same title by Nigerian author Chinua Achebe. Featuring Nkem Owoh alongside Pete Edochie and Sam Loco, the film revolves around the life of Okonkwo, an Igbo I influential leader and warrior. Till date, Things Fall Apart remains a reference point in the evolution of the Nollywood industry.
- Circle of Doom — 1993
The 1993 film title featured legendary actor Nkem Owoh. It was directed by Chris Obi Rapu and also starred Kanayo O. Kanayo, Stella Damascus amongst others.
- Rattlesnake — 1995
The film, Rattlesnake is premised on the story of its lead character Ahanna. He lost his father under suspicious circumstances. The 1995 film starred Nkem as Ahanna’s Uncle. Other casts include Francis Duru, Bob Manuel Udokwu and Ernest Obi. Meanwhile, in 2020, a remake of the classic film was made by Ramsey Nouah.
- Big Man, Big Trouble — 1998
Known for his comic approach to portraying his characters, Nkem Owoh goes on a comedy adventure in Big Man, Big Trouble. The film aside from its comedy highlights poignant themes.
- Onye Eze — 2001
In Onye Eze, Nkem Owoh takes the role of a wicked uncle. He played an unforgettable villain character in the Igbo language indigenous film. It was written by Sunny Collins and directed by Tchidi Chikere.
- Ukwa — 2001
The comedy/drama film Ukwa saw Nkem Owoh display his usual tantrums to give the audience a rollercoaster ride of emotions. He plays a village champion, who goes to the city to meet his wealthy brother but is relegated to being a driver. The 2001 film was directed by Chika Onu.
- Osuofia in London — 2003
Wondering how the legendary actor got his iconic name, ‘Osuofia,’ this 2003 film Osuofia in London is your answer. The Nigerian comedy film was produced and directed by Kingsley Ogoro. The film is arguably one of the biggest-selling Nollywood films of the era. A sequel was followed in 2004 titled Osuofia in London 2.
- Big Man Brother — 2005
This is another Nollywood title Big Man Brother that captured the legendary acting skills of Nkem Owoh. He played a brother to Clem Ohameze, who is wealthy. The story evokes a rush of comedy and entertainment.
- A Fool at 40 — 2006
The 2004 film A Fool At 40 directed by Franklin Nwoko starred Nkem Owoh and the late veteran actor John Okafor known as Mr. Ibu. Playing Hygenius, he is a poor man loafing around in the village. One day, he decides to go to the city and that becomes the twist of the story.
- Stronger Than Pain — 2007
Nkem Owoh’s role in the 2007 film Stronger Than Pain won the award for Best Actor in a Leading Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards. The film was directed by Tchidi Chikere. It is a comedy/drama that tells a story. Playing Ulanna, his pride was taken away due to his love for his tyrannical wife, Eringa played by Kate Henshaw. The journey to break free from the shackles of her beauty keeps one glued and entertained.
10 iconic meme expressions of Nollywood’s legendary actor Osita Iheme
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that renowned actor Osita Iheme, otherwise known as PawPaw, took the internet by storm with his iconic facial expressions and reactions in old movies.
A gradual resurgence of his comic characters kicked off, particularly with Gen Zs, who are able to express regret, confusion, joy, pain and many other emotions.
