Nollywood Stars with Law Degrees: 5 Celebrities Who Switched from Law to Film

Nollywood stars with law degrees, Kemi Adetiba, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Genoveva Umeh, Sandra Okunzuwa, Bukola Ogunsola, Nigerian celebrities who studied law, Nollywood filmmakers, career switch from law to film, Nigerian entertainment industry, Nollywood legal professionals, law graduates in Nollywood.

In Nollywood, where talent reigns supreme and storytelling holds immense power, it might surprise you to learn that several of your favourite actors and filmmakers began their professional journeys in the field of law. While some once stood before judges or passed bar exams, they now command the spotlight, creating cinematic magic on screen.

For some, the courtroom was only a stop on the way to stardom. For others, the skills honed through legal training, discipline, research, and articulation became foundational tools for their rise in film and television.

You’ve likely heard about celebrity law grads like Funke Akindele, Kanayo O. Kanayo, Femi Adebayo, and Falz. But beyond these household names are equally impressive, known talents whose transitions from law to Nollywood are inspiring and worth spotlighting.

Here are five remarkable Nollywood figures who once pursued careers in law but answered the call of the camera and never looked back.

 

5 Nollywood Celebrities Who Switched from Law to Film

1. Kemi Adetiba
2. Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD)
3. Genoveva Umeh
4. Sandra Okunzuwa
5. Bukola Ogunsola

 

1. Kemi Adetiba: From Law Books to Blockbusters

Before she became one of Nigeria’s most acclaimed directors, Kemi Adetiba was a law graduate from the University of Lagos. She was called to the Nigerian Bar, but her passion soon led her far away from the courtroom.

Her journey began in media as a radio host at Rhythm 93.7 FM, where she charmed listeners with shows like Soul’d Out and Sunday at the Seaside. Not long after, she transitioned into television, presenting shows like Temptation Nigeria and Studio 53.

Yearning for more creative control, Adetiba enrolled at the New York Film Academy to learn filmmaking. Her directorial debut came with The Wedding Party (2016), which broke box office records. However, it was her political thriller, King of Boys, that truly cemented her as a powerhouse director.

Kemi’s career arc is proof that a legal background can provide the structure needed to excel in storytelling and that sometimes, your passion can be your most significant argument.

 

2. Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD): A Man of Many Talents

Few entertainers wear as many hats as Richard Mofe-Damijo, fondly known as RMD. Before becoming a screen icon, RMD studied Theatre Arts at the University of Benin. But in a bold mid-career pivot, he returned to school to study law and was called to the Bar.

A former Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Delta State, RMD, has seamlessly blended public service with creative expression. His resume spans decades and includes iconic roles in films such as Out of Bounds and The Wedding Party.

His legal expertise, combined with his artistry, has made him a respected voice both on and off screen, proving that reinvention is always possible, even for a star.

 

3. Genoveva Umeh: The UK-Trained Lawyer Taking Nollywood by Storm

British-Nigerian actress Genoveva Umeh followed the more traditional path of completing her law degree in the UK. Yet, her love for storytelling was undeniable.

After relocating to Nigeria, she made an instant impression in Netflix’s hit Nigerian series Blood Sisters, playing the role of Timeyin. Her performance earned her critical acclaim and a strong fan base.

Umeh represents a new wave of Nigerian actors who blend global training with local storytelling. Her background in law has given her an analytical edge in character development and script interpretation.

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4. Sandra Okunzuwa: From the Bar to the Big Screen

Sandra Okunzuwa’s legal roots run deep. A graduate of the University of Benin, she was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2015 and practised law before making her foray into film.

Today, she’s a rising star with several strong performances under her belt. Her film credits include Lady of the Night (2024), Sarah’s Bind (2023), and Something Like Gold.

Sandra’s journey showcases what happens when passion meets preparation. While she once fought for justice in courtrooms, she now captivates audiences with her compelling performances on screen.

 

5. Bukola Ogunsola: Legal Scholar Turned Storytelling Visionary

Bukola Ogunsola might be one of Nollywood’s most intellectually grounded filmmakers. After earning her law degree from Obafemi Awolowo University and being called to the Bar in 2004, she pursued a Master’s degree in Law at the University of Ibadan.

She held positions as a legal researcher and assistant before pivoting to film. In 2015, she enrolled at the London Film Academy and Met Film School to hone her screenwriting and directing skills.

Her works include The Perfect Plan, Happy Father’s Day, and its sequel, Another Father’s Day, all of which are well-received family dramas. Her 2025 cinema release, Something About the Briggs, further proves she’s a creative force to watch.

Ogunsola’s transition from academia to filmmaking is not just impressive—it’s deeply inspiring, showing how legal thinking can inform powerful, emotionally resonant stories.

These five Nollywood stars remind us that career paths are rarely linear. Whether it’s courtroom debates or dramatic monologues, the power of storytelling remains central. Their unique blend of legal insight and artistic flair continues to enrich Nollywood’s evolving landscape.

In a world where many are pressured to stick to one profession, these actors and filmmakers are living proof that it’s possible to thrive at the intersection of passion and profession.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can a law degree help someone in the entertainment industry?

Yes. A legal background can aid in contract negotiations, intellectual property rights, analytical thinking, and script development. It also instils discipline and professionalism.

Q2: Do any of these stars still practice law?

While most of them no longer practice law actively, their legal knowledge often informs their decisions in production, content rights, and business strategy.

Q3: Why do many entertainers start with law degrees?

Law is regarded as a prestigious and versatile field of study in Nigeria. It provides a strong foundation in communication, research, and public speaking, valuable skills in the media and film industries.

Q4: Are there acting or film schools in Nigeria for those looking to switch careers?

Yes. Institutions like the Royal Arts Academy, Del-York Creative Academy, and PEFTI Film Institute offer training in film and performance. Some, like Kemi Adetiba and Bukola Ogunsola, also pursued international training.

Q5: Who are other Nollywood stars with law degrees?

Beyond this list, other notable names include Funke Akindele, Femi Adebayo, Kenneth Okonkwo, Kanayo O. Kanayo, and Falz the Bahd Guy, all of whom studied law before entering the entertainment industry.