Award-winning actor, Rotimi Salami, speaks on his background and experience in the film industry with KORE OGIDAN
Tell us about your background.
I was born in Surulere, Lagos, but when I was still really young, we moved to the Ajangbadi area of the state where I spent most of my life. I am from a family of five and I am the first son among two boys and three girls. My dad is a steel construction engineer and my mum is a businesswoman. I grew up wanting to become an actor though I never believed that the actors I watched on television were real human beings. I actually thought they were created.
I didn’t enjoy much freedom growing up because my dad was a disciplinarian. My mum however made my childhood interesting. I ascribe everything to her because of how she trained me. At a point, I lost my confidence when I was younger because of my dad’s strict nature but luckily, I’m in a profession where I’ve been able to find my voice and passion.
What schools did you attend?
For my elementary education, I attended St. Mary’s Nursery and Primary School, Ajangbadi. For my junior secondary education, I went to Abeokuta Grammar School, Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Also, I have a degree in Sociology from the Lagos State University.
Which childhood memory still resonates with you?
When I was very young, I wasn’t permitted to fetch water from the well by myself but one day, I attempted to. Because of that, my dad took me out of the house at about 6.30am the next day and attempted to throw me into the well as a punishment. Luckily, the situation was calmed by my neighbours.
What has your experience been in the film industry and what lessons have you learnt thus far?
I am the first person in my family who came into the film industry and because I didn’t have any knowledge of how things worked, I had to find my way and that was very difficult. Looking in from outside, I was sure I could just start and shoot to the top like many great actors I had seen but getting involved proved very different for me. I really suffered when I got in.
What were your fears getting into the entertainment industry?
I had no fear coming in but I started getting scared as the frustration grew. I almost gave up many times because I was tired of the challenges. Just before I won the prestigious Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Award, I told my wife that I had decided to quit acting but she encouraged me to hold on a little longer. Coping in the industry was not easy for me but the passion and my wife’s support kept driving me further. God also helped me overcome fear.
Do you prefer acting in Yoruba or English movies?
I love both. As far as I am concerned, the language I speak doesn’t determine my strength in the craft. I get challenged to speak additional languages such as Igbo when I’m cast in English films; and even in the Yoruba movies, I sometimes get to speak English. They are all intertwined and I enjoy the ability to be versatile in my delivery.
How did you become a producer?
I became a producer out of frustration. I always tell people that even if you don’t achieve what you are passionate about, you can find something related to it that will keep you in the game. For instance, if you want to be a footballer and something hinders that, you can be a coach. No one gave me the opportunity I desired; so, I decided to create one and became a producer.
What’s the most challenging role you’ve ever played?
I haven’t yet played a role that I’ll regard as challenging. I’ve played some interesting roles but none has really challenged me so far.
What plans do you have for your career?
I want to become a philanthropist in the long run but in the meantime, I want to produce more and host events. I’ll be filming a cinema movie titled, Wrong Number, very soon.
How do you manage to balance family life with your busy schedule?
It is easy because my wife understands the nature of my job. I ensure that my home is happy and in proper check before anything else and my work flows well because of this. My wife is a thespian and she doesn’t trouble me when I work. She encourages me instead.
How do you like to dress?
I believe in looking my best for every occasion. If flaunting in a simple way is best for the occasion, I do so. Ultimately, I believe in being comfortable in whatever I wear.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy singing and dancing; but unfortunately, I don’t know how to dance. Although I don’t like to read, I enjoy writing. But because I like my writings to make sense, I get forced to read.
