Actor Emeka Okoye has explained why he turns down kissing roles in movies.
In an interview with Saturday Sun, the To Kill A Monkey star said he avoids such scenes due to his personal covenant with God.
“It has always been God’s guidance. Since I started acting in 1999, I’ve turned down roles that go against my covenant with God. I do ‘safe kissing’ scenes like in Ms. Counselor but not deep or tongue-to-tongue kissing,” he said.
The actor, who has spent over 25 years in Nollywood, added that he still accepts romantic roles as long as they don’t require deep intimacy.
Emeka said he admires directors like Kemi Adetiba for focusing on talent rather than physical appearance.
Speaking on his experience in To Kill A Monkey, he recounted how he got the role after posting a monologue on Instagram and tagging the filmmaker. “Weeks later, I got a call that Madam Kemi had picked me for the role in a Netflix Original. I screamed, knelt down, and burst into praise,” he said.
Emeka, who began acting in 1999 with Prophet of Darkness, also reflected on his humble beginnings in Asaba. “During my early days, I experienced the good, the bad, and the ugly, but I never allowed the challenges to deter me. I stayed true to my calling,” he said.
On body image, the actor admitted losing roles because of his chubby look. “Yes, several times. Ironically, when I was slimmer, I also lost roles because I was considered too small. But I’m content and grateful for every opportunity,” he said.
Emeka, who nearly lost his life to high blood pressure earlier in the year, also thanked God for sparing him.
The Papa Pepe actor said 2025 has been one of his best years yet.
