Nollywood actor Benedict Johnson has shared details of a difficult period in his career, revealing that he went five years without receiving a single movie role.
The actor made the disclosure in a viral video while speaking at Streams of Joy International Church in Abuja, where he recounted how the prolonged lack of work tested his faith and career.
Johnson said that during the five-year period, filmmakers and producers stopped contacting him for projects, leaving him without any acting opportunities despite his experience in the industry.
According to him, the nature of the film industry makes such situations particularly challenging because actors often depend on being invited or selected for roles.
“For five good years as a seasoned actor, I never had any job to do,” he said. “Our industry is not like regular employment where you can approach your boss and ask what went wrong. In this case, nobody calls you.”
The actor explained that the experience led him to deepen his spiritual life. He decided to relocate to Abuja so he could attend the prayer programmes of Pastor Jerry Eze, founder of Streams of Joy International and leader of the popular New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declarations (NSPPD).
Johnson said he initially followed the prayers online but later chose to move to the capital to participate in person.
“I said to myself I would come to Abuja so I could see Pastor Jerry every Sunday, watch him, stay with him and ask God to bless me through him,” he said.
The decision, however, was met with skepticism from some colleagues in the film industry who warned him that Abuja was not a major centre for film production.
Despite the warnings, Johnson said he remained confident in his decision.
According to the actor, his fortunes have since changed. He revealed that he has already participated in 12 film projects this year alone after taking part in the church’s 21-day fasting and prayer programme earlier in January.
Johnson added that his acting career continues to gain momentum, noting that he is scheduled to travel to Germany and the United States for upcoming movie projects.
He attributed the turnaround in his career to divine intervention, saying he gives all the credit to God for the renewed opportunities.
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