Rising Nollywood Star Ebisan Arayi on His Journey and the Global Rise of Nigerian Cinema

As Nollywood continues to expand its global footprint, rising actor Ebisan Arayi is carving out a name for himself as one of the industry’s promising young talents.

Arayi, known for roles in Hey You, Baby Farm, and Perfect Neighbour, revealed that his passion for acting began at a very young age. “The project that made me feel I was meant to be part of the industry happened when I was 10. I was part of Charly Boy’s Kiddies Show for a few seasons,” he shared.

He recalled that despite parental pressure to prioritize school, his experience on the show solidified his love for acting. “When the show ended, I realized I wanted to continue acting even more. I admired how the cast was treated and pampered, it made me want to be part of it.”

Arayi also credited his family for nurturing his passion. “My mum has been a big inspiration. Iyabo Lawani, she hosted the Maggi Family Menu on TV for over 15-20 years and is a veteran actress. That motivated me even more,” he said.

Reflecting on Nollywood’s current trajectory, Arayi expressed excitement about the industry’s growing global presence. “Many conversations are happening around Nollywood. What excites me most is seeing it recognized worldwide. Young directors and producers are doing fantastic work, and new talent is emerging every day. That’s what excites me the most: Nollywood is being recognized globally now.”

With actors like Arayi emerging and a new generation of filmmakers pushing creative boundaries, Nollywood’s international appeal continues to grow, cementing its position as a powerhouse in global cinema.