Veteran actor, Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, has shared compelling insights into the compensation of actors in today’s Nollywood.

He made this known during a panel discussion at the Africa International Film Festival held during the week.

During the panel session moderated by actor, Enyinna Nwigwe, Mofe-Damijo expressed his willingness to support emerging talents.

He said, “If a student approaches me to star in a movie, I will even give the student money to shoot. If Enyinna Nwigwe tells me that he is working on his film, I will work with him based on the father-son relationship that we have.

“If a student comes to me, I will never charge. I have done free films for students, for young producers, and for young actors. What actors want is a structure. There is nothing wrong with you calling my agent.”

Addressing the financial aspect, he asserted, “There is no money that you will pay an actor in today’s Nollywood that we would consider as big money. We love the work so much that we are not able to work according to your budget.”

During the discussion, RMD echoed the sentiments of his fellow panellist, actress Shaffy Bello, where she emphasised the importance of respecting those behind the project.

He highlighted the industry’s collective passion for reeling out compelling narratives, adding, “Actors are all suckers for good stories. Once the story is good, you have got the attention of the actor.”