Veteran actor Dele Odule has opened up about his journey in Nollywood, the misconceptions surrounding his personal life, and his unapologetic embrace of African cultural values, including polygamy.
In a wide-ranging interview with Faith Ajayi, Odule dismissed viral rumours about heartbreak and relationships, clarifying that what many interpreted as a personal confession was simply an inspirational post.
“Nobody broke my heart; nobody can break my heart,” he said. “I can only get disappointed. That disappointment can come from anyone — a friend, a family member, even my child. But heartbreak, no.”
He laughed off social media claims that a 200-level student had broken his heart. “My first daughter is a lecturer with a PhD. How can a 200-level student break my heart? That would be silly,” he said. “If I were ever involved with a 200-level student, she would just be a passing fancy; nothing serious.”
Odule also addressed long-standing rumours about his family life. “People claimed I had 10 children with 10 women. I simply agreed. After all, it’s not a crime in Nigeria. If it’s a sin, I’ll face it when I get to heaven,” he said.
He defended polygamy as part of African tradition. “Western culture says one man, one wife, but we are Africans. The key is being responsible and disciplined,” he said. “I’m not saying everyone should do it, but if a man can responsibly care for multiple wives, why not?”
On his acting career, Odule said he doesn’t choose roles — they are assigned by directors, and his job is to interpret them with depth and authenticity. “That’s the essence of acting,” he said.
He credited discipline and consistency for his longevity in the industry. “Life is like riding a bicycle; to keep your balance, you have to keep moving,” he said. “I’ve learnt to adapt, stay disciplined, and never allow setbacks to weigh me down.”
Despite fame, Odule said he remains grounded at home. “When I am at home, I’m simply a father and a husband, not a star,” he said. “I give at least 70 per cent of my time and effort to family.”
He also shared his passion for education, revealing that he returned to school to study Mass Communication later in life. “I didn’t study Theatre Arts because, with my years of experience, I already teach through practice,” he said. “Mass Communication complements what I do.”
On handling criticism, Odule said he welcomes constructive feedback but ignores destructive comments. “Feedback is vital — both positive and negative. As long as it’s honest, it helps me improve,” he said.
To aspiring actors, he offered a word of caution: “Be focused, disciplined, and patient. Don’t chase fame or money; chase mastery. Perfect your craft first; the fame and money will follow.”
He added, “If you join the industry at an older age, let it be for passion, not profit. Do it as a hobby, not out of desperation.”
Dele Odule’s reflections offer a rare glimpse into the mind of a seasoned performer who has weathered the storms of celebrity with grace, humour, and an unwavering commitment to his roots.
