‘I agree at times to work for free just to be noticed in the industry’ – Mary Adufe

Mary Adufe is a Yoruba actress who studied communication and language at the Obafemi Awolowo university, Ife and later worked as a journalist for a while. She resigned to become secretary to popular Yoruba actor Yinka Quadri 

Many Nigerian women are into bleaching, what is your take on this?

Every human makes choice that best suits them and that is where Individual differences come to play. I cannot judge or condemn anyone who chooses to tone or bleach their skin. Every individual has the right to his or her choice. 

Why did you opt for acting instead of journalism?

Acting is an in borne ability for me because it comes naturally. Though I loved journalism as a profession but I could not help following my dreams to become an actress. 

How many films do you have to your credit?

I am the producer of Ifokantan, Magretino and Life drama. Magretino and Life drama will hit the market soon. I have featured in so many movies that I have lost count. Movies like Ona Abayo, Ologo, Effisy po, Ifokantan, Nitori Aye, Metomi, Akanda Olorun etc. and soap operas like Footprint, Girls next door, Kilanta, Eldorado etc. 

You started with English soaps but now focuse on Yoruba home videos why?

I started with soaps but because I could not forgo my passion for the Yoruba sector, I had to find my way there. I didn’t know anyone in the Yoruba movie industry but when I met Yinka Quadri, it was the beginnings of dreams come true. 

Challenges of been an upcoming actress?

It has not been easy but I have to move on. I agree at times to work for free just to be noticed in the industry. The journey has not been rosy but I know I will get there.

What was your first acting experience like?

It was an experience I will not forget in a hurry. I made some mistakes that I can now laugh at but I was fortunate that the director was lenient back then. 

Mistakes like?

As an amateur, I backed the camera.  

Did your first role as a lesbian marred people’s opinion about you?

(Smiles) not at all. It is just a character and not Mary Adufe. I am a different person from what you see on camera. 

Your pet name is Magretino and you titled your new film Magretino too, what is the connection?

I don’t want to talk about why I named the film after my pet name. The reasons will become obvious when the film hits the market. 

What do you want to be known for?

I want to be known for good leadership, become mentor to a lot of people and to touch many lives positively. 

There is a popular belief that upcoming actresses sleep their way through to be get roles in the industry, your take?

That is not true. I have never slept with anybody to get roles. But that does not mean it does not happen. God and humility is my secret.

Why do you think some actresses fall victims of sexual harassment?

I believe it is because of the way these actresses dress. Many of them dress provocatively. Acting does not mean forgetting our culture or throwing decency into the wind.

What will be the price to have Mary act nude?

No way. I cannot do that for any price. I will never sell my dignity and become a disgrace to the women folks 

How far can you go to interpret a sexual role?

I don’t intend accepting sexual roles. My body belongs to my husband and him alone will touch it. 

You once said Doctor Bankole Martin makes you happy and also said the lucky man is D. B. M, these puts together….. your comment?

It was a mistake. My fiance’s name is not close to those initials. Doctor Bankole Martin came to my aid when I was ill and had nothing on me to settle my medical bills. He is one of my mentors. 

Have you ever felt like giving up your acting career?

No, not for any thing in the world.

Can you invite your ex to your wedding?

(smiles) Do you know if I have an ex.? It is no big deal, I can invite my ex-boyfriend to my wedding ceremony. 

What is your favourite colour?I cherish pink and white. 

You once said you like Funke Akindele when she is not angry, does that mean she goes crazy or what?

To err is human and the only perfect being is God. I cannot really say much about that. 

The movie industry is a very competitive one, how do you intend surviving?

With God by my side, the sky is a stepping stone for me.