Veteran Nollywood actor Ejike Asiegbu has expressed concern over what he describes as the growing obsession with fame among many young actors in the Nigerian film industry, saying the passion for storytelling and dedication to the craft appear to be fading.

Speaking during a recent episode of the ‘Nollywood on Radio’ podcast, the 66-year-old actor said some younger stars now carry themselves with an “I have arrived” attitude instead of focusing on growth and humility.

“What makes it sad is that the younger ones have become emboldened by this cocky ‘I have arrived’ mentality,” he said.

“Only a few are still reflective of the older ones, and not just humble. Many of them, when they see you, expect you to come and greet them because they feel they’ve already made it.”

The filmmaker also shared his frustration over what he sees as a lack of preparation among some actors before stepping on set.

“Most of them don’t read scripts until they get on set,” he said.

Despite his criticism, Asiegbu noted that acting is one profession where experience continues to shape and improve performers over time.

Born in Umuahia, Abia State, Asiegbu joined Nollywood in 1996 and gained recognition after starring in the movie “Silent Night.”