As he marks three decades in the film industry, veteran Nollywood director and producer, Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, has issued a passionate and pointed call to action to some of Nollywood’s biggest stars — past and present.

In a heartfelt interview with Vanguard, Lancelot reflected on Nollywood’s evolution and expressed disappointment at how several once-revered actors, including Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Genevieve Nnaji, Jim Iyke, and Emeka Ike, appear to have distanced themselves from the industry that made them household names.

“Some of them have become bigger than the industry that made them,” he lamented. “Where are the people that Nollywood birthed?”

According to the director, the early days of Nollywood were built on mutual respect, raw talent, and selfless collaboration — a spirit that seems to be fading in today’s “New Nollywood,” where glitz sometimes outshines legacy. He urged these seasoned stars to return, not just in presence, but in purpose, helping to mentor, support, and uplift a younger generation of creatives.

🗣️ Opinion: Is Nollywood Losing Its Legends to Silence?

Lancelot’s statement raises a vital and uncomfortable question: Should legends stay connected to the industries that gave them fame? While it’s easy to argue that individuals have the right to choose their paths, it’s equally fair to expect a level of responsibility from those who once benefited so much from a shared cultural platform.

Genevieve, Omotola, and their contemporaries redefined African cinema — they carried Nollywood to global screens, earned it respect, and helped build a vibrant storytelling economy. But has their silence now become too loud?

Mentorship, guest appearances, funding initiatives, or even just public support for upcoming projects could make a massive difference. As Lancelot puts it, Nollywood needs its own to survive and thrive. It’s not about fame — it’s about legacy.

💭 Final Thoughts

Every industry is built by people who carry the torch. If those who lit the first flames walk away, who’s left to fan the fire? Lancelot Imasuen’s call isn’t just about nostalgia — it’s about continuity, responsibility, and the soul of a creative movement.

Perhaps it’s time we hear from the legends themselves. Are they gone for good — or is there still a chance for a homecoming?

What’s your take — should Nollywood veterans return to support the new generation?