Nollywood actor Alhaji Olaide Oladipupo, popularly known as “The Finest,” has opened up about a deeply emotional experience that almost made him quit acting entirely.

 

In an exclusive interview with FeelrightNews TV on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, Oladipupo shared how a painful encounter with actress Funke Akindele in 2006 shook him to his core just as he was preparing to establish himself independently in Nollywood.

 

Oladipupo, who trained under Akeem Kosoko, the younger brother of Nollywood icon Jide Kosoko, revealed that he got his initial break in the industry through the Kosoko family. After expressing his dreams of becoming an actor to a Lagos-based woman, she introduced him to Akeem, who mentored him for several years.

 

Everything seemed to be falling into place — until a chance meeting with Funke Akindele on a film set brought unexpected humiliation.

 

“I was so happy to see her again. I reached out, hoping she’d remember me and the project we worked on,” he recalled.

“But to my shock, she slapped me across the face. I was deeply embarrassed and tears filled my eyes instantly.”

 

Oladipupo said the incident devastated him and made him question whether he truly belonged in Nollywood. At the time, he was still working as an assistant under Akeem Kosoko and had not yet established his name in the industry.

 

He admitted he contemplated walking away from acting completely.

 

Despite the harsh moment, Oladipupo noted that it didn’t affect his long-term relationship with Funke Akindele. Over time, he said, she was friendly and supportive toward him and even offered encouragement as he grew in the industry.

 

“She later became someone who supported me in her own way. That incident, as painful as it was, taught me a lot,” he said.

 

Oladipupo described the slap as a defining moment in his life — one that instilled in him a deep sense of perseverance, humility, and emotional strength.

 

He gave special thanks to the Kosoko family for standing by him during that low point, especially Akeem, who helped him stay focused and rebuild his confidence.

 

“Looking back, I understand that every actor has their own journey filled with tests of character and moments that shape who they become,” Oladipupo said.

 

Now an accomplished actor in his own right, Oladipupo’s story serves as a powerful reminder that the road to success often passes through painful trials, and how we respond to them can define our path.