Nollywood actor Timini Egbuson has admitted that he once looked down on YouTube movie productions, joking that he might have struggled financially if he had continued to dismiss them.
The actor made the revelation in a post on X, where he reflected on his changed perception of movies produced for the video-sharing platform.
“Can’t believe I was looking down on YouTube movies at some point. Hunger go don kpai me by now,” he wrote.
His comment has sparked conversations about the growing acceptance of YouTube movies in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, as more actors and filmmakers embrace the platform as a source of income and a means of reaching wider audiences.
Egbuson, who has featured in YouTube movie productions, has expanded his presence beyond traditional Nollywood cinema and mainstream streaming platforms.
For years, many actors and filmmakers have prioritised cinema releases and major streaming platforms, often viewing them as more prestigious and financially rewarding than films released directly on YouTube.
However, the growing popularity of online movies is gradually changing that perception, with YouTube offering filmmakers an alternative avenue to distribute their content, build audiences and generate revenue.
The shift has also gained momentum as some Nigerian filmmakers increasingly turn to YouTube amid changes in the operations of international streaming platforms, which have affected opportunities for local productions.
Egbuson’s remarks underscore how changing industry realities and the need for financial sustainability are encouraging entertainers to embrace opportunities they might previously have overlooked.
