I Met Soyinka in the ’90s,He Was Married To My Late Wife’s Best Friend; He invited Me For An Audition-RMD

NEWS HUB CREATOR • 2h ago

Veteran Nollywood actor Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, has recounted how his determination to work with Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka eventually earned him an opportunity to audition for a stage production in Abeokuta in the early 1990s.

RMD shared the experience during an interview with Olive Emodi on her podcast on Friday, October 30, 2026, while reflecting on the influential individuals who contributed to his growth and development in the entertainment industry.

The actor explained that he had long admired Soyinka and repeatedly expressed his desire to work with the renowned playwright. He disclosed that their eventual meeting was facilitated by a personal connection, as Soyinka was married to his late wife’s best friend at the time.

According to RMD, he did not hide his interest in working with the literary icon whenever he had the opportunity to express it. His persistence eventually paid off when Soyinka invited him to Abeokuta to audition for a stage production.

He recalled that the invitation marked an important moment in his acting journey, as the opportunity went beyond simply meeting someone he admired. Following the audition, he was selected and travelled with Soyinka to Italy for a stage play, giving him an opportunity to gain international stage experience.

RMD also identified the experience as one of the moments that shaped his professional journey, acknowledging the role of established figures who recognised his talent and provided opportunities for him to develop.

Recalling how the opportunity came about, he said: “When I met Soyinka in the early ’90s, he was married to my late wife’s best friend. I kept saying, ‘I want to work with Prof.’ He gave me an opportunity to come to Abeokuta for an audition.”

The actor’s account highlights how his determination to work with Soyinka eventually opened an important door in his career. It also reflects his appreciation for the mentors and influential individuals who recognised his abilities and helped him progress in the entertainment industry.