Nollywood actress Scarlet Gomez has revealed that she sought therapy after portraying the complex character Wura-Amoo Adeleke in the popular Showmax series Wura, citing the emotional strain the role placed on her.
Speaking on the podcast Paul and Baaj, hosted by Paul Utomi and Baaj Adebule, Gomez explained that the ruthless mindset of her character lingered off-set, influencing her interactions in daily life and prompting her husband to notice the change.
“I had to do therapy after Wura because it was bad. I went back to my YouTube jobs… and I’m supposed to play the victim, and somebody’s talking to me, and I’m looking at the person like, ‘Do you know who I am?’ I heard people call me number one, I felt like I was Wura,” she said.
Gomez emphasised that exiting a role can be even more challenging than stepping into it, particularly after embodying a character for an extended period. “I always tell people… getting into a character is easier than getting out of a character, especially when you’ve played it for a long time,” she noted.
Highlighting the importance of mental health, she encouraged fellow actors and viewers to seek professional support when needed.
Wura, Showmax’s first Nigerian original telenovela, has gained acclaim for its gripping storyline and multi-layered characters. Gomez’s portrayal of a respected businesswoman with a hidden, ruthless side has resonated with audiences and garnered praise for its complexity and nuance.