Full Name: Funke Akindele-Bello
Date of Birth: August 24, 1977
Place of Birth: Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Career Awards | – African Movie Academy Award |
| – Best Actress in a Leading Role (2009) for “Jenifa” | |
| – Nigeria Entertainment Awards | |
| – Best Actress (2009) | |
| – City People Entertainment Awards | |
| – Best Actress of the Year (2016) | |
| – The Future Awards Africa | |
| – Best Actress (2013) | |
| – ELOY Awards | |
| – Best Actress (2016) | |
| Husband | Abdul Rasheed Bello (JJC Skillz) |
| Marriage Year | 2016 |
| Children | – Twins (a boy and a girl) born in 2018 |
Early Life:
Funke Akindele was born into a family of three children. She attended the Grace Children’s School in Lagos and later moved on to the Ogun State Polytechnic, where she earned a degree in Mass Communication. During her studies, she developed a passion for acting, which would shape her future career.
Career Beginnings:
Akindele’s acting career began in the late 1990s when she appeared in the popular television series “I Need to Know.” However, it was her role in the movie “Jenifa” (2008) that catapulted her to fame. The film showcased her talent for both comedy and drama, and her character, Jenifa, became a cultural icon in Nigeria.
Rise to Fame:
After the success of “Jenifa,” Funke Akindele became one of Nigeria’s most sought-after actresses. She starred in numerous films and television series, gaining recognition for her performances. Some of her notable works include:
- “Omo Ghetto” (2010): A comedy film that was both a critical and commercial success, solidifying her status in the industry.
- “Jenifa’s Diary”: A television series that is a spin-off of “Jenifa,” which became immensely popular and ran for several seasons.
Akindele is known for her ability to blend humor with social commentary in her work, often addressing contemporary issues in Nigerian society.
Acclaimed Work and Awards:
Throughout her career, Funke Akindele has received numerous awards and nominations for her contributions to the film industry. She won the African Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role in 2009 for “Jenifa.” Her impact on Nollywood has been significant, and she is recognized for her entrepreneurial spirit, founding her production company, Sceneone Productions.
Personal Life:
Funke Akindele’s personal life has also been in the spotlight. She was previously married to Kehinde Oloyede, but the marriage ended in divorce. In 2016, she married Nigerian musician Abdul Rasheed Bello, popularly known as JJC Skillz. The couple welcomed twins in 2018.
Philanthropy and Advocacy:
Akindele is involved in various philanthropic efforts, supporting education and health initiatives in Nigeria. She has used her platform to advocate for women’s rights and empowerment, emphasizing the importance of education for young girls.
Recent Work and Legacy:
In recent years, Funke Akindele has continued to expand her career, taking on roles in films and television while also producing content that resonates with her audience. She has appeared in international projects, increasing her visibility beyond Nigeria.
Her influence extends beyond acting, as she has become a role model for aspiring actors and filmmakers in Nigeria and across Africa.
Current Status:
As of 2023, Funke Akindele remains a prominent figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry, continuing to create and star in projects that entertain and inspire. Her dedication to her craft and her contributions to society have solidified her legacy as one of Nollywood’s leading actresses.
Conclusion:
Funke Akindele’s journey from a young girl in Ikorodu to a celebrated actress and entrepreneur is a testament to her talent, hard work, and resilience. She has made significant contributions to the film industry and continues to impact the lives of many through her work and philanthropy.