Where Are the Biggest Stars from the 90s Today?

The 1990s and early 2000s were the foundational years of Nollywood, a period characterized by its raw energy, prolific output, and the rise of a new class of Nigerian celebrities. The actors from this era were more than just performers; they were cultural icons whose faces adorned movie posters in markets across Africa and whose stories became a staple in millions of households. They built the industry from the ground up, capturing the imagination of a continent. But as Nollywood evolved, transitioning from the direct-to-video model to the more globally recognized “New Nollywood,” a question lingers in the minds of many fans: What became of these beloved pioneers?

The journey from the classic era to the cinematic landscape of 2025 has been a complex one. The industry’s transformation brought with it higher production values, new distribution channels like cinemas and streaming giants, and a fresh generation of talent. For the stars of the 90s, this shift presented both opportunities and challenges. Some masterfully navigated this new terrain, cementing their status as timeless legends. Others chose to step away from the limelight, embarking on new and sometimes unexpected paths. This post explores where some of the biggest stars from Nollywood’s golden age are today.

Navigating the Shift from Old to New Nollywood

The transition from the old to the new Nigerian cinema was not just a technical upgrade; it was a fundamental change in the business and art of filmmaking. New Nollywood demanded a different set of skills, a new approach to acting, and the ability to compete on a global stage. Classic-era actors faced the challenge of adapting to this new reality.

What Challenges Did the Transition Present?

For many veterans, the industry’s evolution meant adapting to longer production schedules, different directorial styles, and scripts that often catered to a more international audience. The rise of a new generation of actors, trained in film schools and theatre arts programs, also created a more competitive environment. Some veteran actors found themselves typecast, struggling to break free from the iconic roles that had made them famous. Others simply found that the industry had moved in a direction that no longer aligned with their personal or professional goals, leading them to explore opportunities outside of acting.

Still Gracing Our Screens: The Enduring Legends

Despite the industry’s changes, a number of classic-era stars have not only remained relevant but have thrived, successfully bridging the gap between the old and new guards of Nollywood. These actors have become respected veterans whose presence in a film lends it a stamp of quality and authenticity.

Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD): The Ageless Icon

Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, was a bona fide superstar in the 90s, known for his suave demeanor and leading roles in films like Out of Bounds (1997). After a successful career in the classic era, he took a significant hiatus from acting to serve as the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Delta State. However, his return to Nollywood was nothing short of triumphant. RMD seamlessly integrated into the new cinematic landscape, delivering powerhouse performances in some of New Nollywood’s biggest blockbusters, including The Wedding Party (2016) and King of Boys (2018). As of 2025, he remains one of Nigeria’s most sought-after and respected actors, celebrated not only for his craft but also as a timeless style icon for a new generation.

Kanayo O. Kanayo: From Ritualist Roles to Respected Veteran

Kanayo O. Kanayo became a household name after his debut in the seminal film Living in Bondage (1992). Throughout the classic era, he was often typecast in roles portraying a member of an occult group or a ritualist. While these roles made him famous, he has successfully diversified his portfolio in the modern era. He continues to be a prominent figure in Nollywood, taking on a wider range of complex characters in both cinema and streaming productions. Off-screen, his journey has been equally impressive; in 2020, he was called to the Nigerian Bar, adding “lawyer” to his list of achievements. This accomplishment has further solidified his status as a respected and multifaceted public figure who continues to command attention on screen.

Ireti Doyle: A Master of Her Craft

Ireti Doyle’s career began in the 90s, but she has arguably become even more influential in the New Nollywood era. Known for her impeccable diction and commanding presence, she has established herself as the go-to actress for portraying strong, articulate, and often formidable female characters. Her roles in major productions like Fifty (2015) and as the matriarch Obianuju Onwuka in The Wedding Party have made her a critical and commercial powerhouse. In 2025, Ireti Doyle is a symbol of excellence in the industry, admired for her consistency, professionalism, and the depth she brings to every role.

Beyond the Camera: New Ventures and Different Paths

For many 90s stars, life after the peak of their Nollywood fame has taken them far away from the film set. These individuals have leveraged their influence and skills to build successful careers in other fields, proving that their talent was never confined to acting.

Liz Benson: From Silver Screen to the Pulpit

In the mid-90s, Liz Benson was arguably Nollywood’s biggest actress. Her talent and beauty made her the star of countless hit movies, including the iconic thriller Glamour Girls (1994). At the height of her fame, she made the shocking decision to step away from her acting career to become an evangelist. Today, she and her husband run a successful ministry, the Freedom Family Assembly. While she has made very occasional and selective appearances in films over the years, her primary focus remains her work as a pastor. Her journey from the pinnacle of Nollywood stardom to a life of religious service remains one of the most talked-about transitions in the industry’s history.

Regina Askia: Nollywood’s Queen to American Nurse

A former beauty queen who was crowned Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria in 1989, Regina Askia quickly became one of the brightest stars of early Nollywood. Her roles in films like Most Wanted (1998) made her a sensation. However, in the early 2000s, she relocated to the United States to pursue a different dream. She successfully transitioned into a new career and is now a Family Nurse Practitioner in America. She remains a beloved figure and connects with her fans through social media, where she advocates for healthcare issues and shares insights into her life and family.

A Summary of Their Current Status

The paths taken by the stars of the 90s are as diverse as the roles they once played. Here is a brief overview of where some of these iconic figures are today.

Actor Name	Famous For (Classic Era)	Current Status (as of 2025)
Richard Mofe-Damijo	Suave leading man roles	A-list actor and style icon in New Nollywood.
Kanayo O. Kanayo	Iconic “ritualist” roles	Active in Nollywood, also a practicing lawyer.
Ireti Doyle	Versatile dramatic actress	A leading actress in high-budget New Nollywood films.
Liz Benson	Top leading lady of the 90s	An ordained evangelist and pastor.
Regina Askia	Beauty queen and actress	Working as a Family Nurse Practitioner in the USA.
Saint Obi	Nollywood’s “action hero”	Primarily a businessman and media consultant.
Emeka Ike	Classic “lover boy” roles	Less active in acting, has ventured into politics and business.
Shan George	Daring and versatile actress	Still acts occasionally and works as a filmmaker.

In conclusion, the pioneers of Nollywood’s golden age have embarked on remarkably varied journeys. While some continue to light up our screens with their talent, others have found fulfillment in law, ministry, healthcare, and business. Regardless of their current professions, their foundational contributions to building what has become a global cultural phenomenon are undeniable. They were the original stars who proved that Nigerian stories were worth telling, and their legacy continues to shape the industry today.