“That Rejection Almost Broke Me” — Arese Ugwu Speaks on Netflix Blow, Filmmaking Dreams, and Creative Resilience
Acclaimed Nigerian author and filmmaker Arese Ugwu has opened up about a painful rejection from streaming giant Netflix, revealing how the platform turned down her request to partner on an expanded version of her hit TV show, The Smart Money Woman.
In a candid interview with Afropolitan, the 39-year-old writer said she was left devastated after Netflix — despite her show’s impressive performance — refused her pitch for a larger collaboration.
“We were in the top 10 for 13 weeks on Netflix,” she said.
“I then approached Netflix for sponsorship to make the project bigger and better, and shockingly, they turned me down. That rejection almost broke me.”
The Smart Money Woman, adapted from her bestselling book, captivated audiences with its vibrant portrayal of modern African women navigating finances, relationships, and identity. Its success on Africa Magic and Netflix made it a cultural talking point, and many expected a strong second season backed by streaming money. But reality hit differently.
Still, Arese remains undeterred. She sees the experience as a stepping stone in her evolution as a true filmmaker, not just a novelist whose work was adapted.
“I want to establish myself as a filmmaker. I feel like some people still see me as the girl who wrote a book and the book was turned into a TV series,” she added.
💭 Opinion: Arese’s Story is a Wake-Up Call — African Stories Deserve More Than Just a Platform, They Deserve Investment
Arese Ugwu’s journey shines a spotlight on the uneven playing field African creatives often face in the global streaming space. Her show proved itself with audience reception — yet support was withheld. Why?
This isn’t just about Netflix. It’s a broader issue of how African content is appreciated but not always backed. Arese’s resilience and bold ambition signal that she's not waiting around for validation. She’s part of a wave of women reshaping Nollywood’s future — writers who create, produce, and fight for their own stories.
Let’s uplift voices like hers, because the world needs smart money women — and smart money stories.
📢 Have you watched The Smart Money Woman? Would you like to see a Season 2?
💬 Share your thoughts using #SupportAfricanStorytelling #AreseUgwuDeservesMore #SmartMoneySeries
