Here are the hot Nollywood stars that light up our screens so much they just HAD to be part of our very first #ManCrushMonday list for 2021. * Insert lovely poem about how we absolutely adore our men * ☺️

Uti Nwachukwu

Uti is hands down what fav compound boys are made of – and we’re totally proud to have been part of his journey since his turn on Big Brother Africa (someone please tag Ebuka, abeg!🙃). At age 25, Uti took a leap of faith and participated in the third season of BBA where he was the third evictee. The Day 41 exit didn’t cut this charmer’s ambitions short because just a few years later, he saw the walls of the Big Brother House once again – and this time, left with the crown. Uti’s big win propelled this talent even further into the entertainment dormitory because and squeezed the life out of every opportunity that came his way. From being part of impressive movie casts to hosting and presenting, Uti has made quite a name for himself. Now host of our very own magazine show Jara and anchor during the most recent AMVCAs, Uti is a force to be reckoned with – and we’re here for it. 

Bright Okpocha (Basketmouth)

Did you know that Basketmouth hosted billionaire Femi Otedola in his home? Yup! That would hands down be reason enough to totally crush on this funnyman, but we’d like to tell you more, sha! Having bagged The National Comedy Award for Best Standup Comedian of The Year on consecutive years, this Abia State rooted, but Lagos born comedian has managed to breathe life into the West African comedy scene – and continues to spark trends as buzzworthy as the #TwoThingsChallenge. His trajectory has definitely been an impressive one, and we love every moment of watching him play Frank on My Flatmates.

Channelling himself a few years before his big break, Basket’s character on Nigeria’s biggest sitcom is an interesting one, to say the least. Between juggling a relationship with demanding Mimi, feeding Prosper’s ‘vermiums’ and hiding Obus, Dan, Wilber and Donatos whenever his monied father comes by, Frank prunes his career in stand-up (Titus says he’s only funny once if four weeks 😂). Wehdon o!



Olamilekan Moshood Agbeleshe (Laycon)

Oh Lay Lay Lay (Abeg! E no be ‘Lagos’)! If you though physical auditions were a long shot, imagine virtual ones, abi? Against all odds and then some, however, Laycon made it into Biggie’s House – and despite the challenge of having to go against men built like the Hulk 😅, Laycon came out victorious.

One of the biggest reasons why we’re crushing on Laycon today is because of his brand-new reality show which kicks off this month on Showmax! Keep it locked and watch out for those hashtags on social media. Also, do you have your DSTV + Showmax subscription intact, abi? You better! 😌



Charles Inojie

Named Nigeria’s best comedy merchant (rightfully so), Charles Inojie is the epitome of longevity, dedication and talent. With a career that spans decades, Charles went from behind-the-scenes work (he was an assistant director), to full-time acting and directing.

For eons, Charles has held the role of Lucky Johnson, head of the mischievous Johnsons family and does so with a unique touch of comedy. For his continued contribution to the growing industry and setting Spif and Tari straight on The Johnsons, issa wehdon sah!



Tomiwa Tegbe and Soma Apex

Did you know My Siblings and I is back on your screens? Well, so is the overly ambitious and quick-buck-seeking pair, James and Dave. Their bond was first forged back in season 1 when they, as the only non-married ‘men’ in the family, thought making money would earn them the freedom that Nnena now has. Now down to freshly premiered season 3, the pair continues to bring us laughter through their shenanigans.

Tomiwa’s acting career took off when he landed his first lead role (after his first audition, might we add?) and has since graced our screens on different projects. Soma on the other hand, kickstarted his career in the #BBNaija House and has, since his premature exit, crafted a name for himself in Nollywood.
 

These fine entertainers continue to do the most – and deserve a special shoutout for all the excellent work they do, so KUDOS, lads!

Africa Magic and by extension Nollywood, have so much entertainment to offer – and we’re proud to have the above-mentioned talent as part of our talent pool. Keep your eyes glued to your screens to see them in action! You can also watch My Siblings and I & The Laycon show on Showmax or catch up on DStv.