Comedian and actor Ayo Makun (AY) has stirred conversation after calling out what he describes as the “fake celebrity lifestyle” on social media. Speaking via his Instagram page on Thursday, AY urged followers to be cautious of what they admire online, warning that much of the glamour is just borrowed or staged. 

He pointed out that some influencers and celebrities rely on borrowed wigs, outfits, and even rented or staged locations just to appear wealthy. “Some take pictures in hotel lobbies and call them their new homes, while others pose with cars that don’t belong to them,” AY said. 

Describing social media as a “movie set,” he expressed concern that users comparing their real lives to these curated illusions are under unnecessary pressure. The comparison, the comedian suggested, can lead to anxiety, dissatisfaction and the false idea that one’s life is somehow inferior. 

Rather than chasing illusions, AY encouraged people to embrace authenticity and personal growth. He said it’s better to “live real and simple than to live a life full of fake and boring.” He emphasised that everyone has their own timeline and that comparisons are often unhelpful. 

Fans reacted heavily to AY’s message. Many shared similar feelings about the pressure to keep up appearances. Some social media users said they feel relieved that a public figure acknowledged what many already see but seldom discuss. 

AY’s intervention adds to a growing conversation in Nigeria and beyond about social media authenticity. As digital life becomes more filtered, voices like his remind us that not everything captured in pictures is as it seems.