Content creator Raheem Halimah, popularly known as Papaya Ex, has explained why she finally decided to join Nollywood as she makes her acting debut in the film The Night Market.
Papaya Ex, on social media said acting was something she had always wanted but kept private until she felt ready.
“Honestly, acting has been something I’ve wanted for a long time. I just kept it to myself because I didn’t want to rush it,” she said.
She added that feedback from fans who enjoyed her skits encouraged her to take acting seriously.
“People would tell me, ‘Wow, Papaya, you act so well,’ and I would just smile because they didn’t know the kind of thoughts I had in my head. The day I stepped on a real set and felt completely at home, I said, ‘Okay, this thing is really in me.’ That was when I knew,” she said.
Papaya Ex noted that acting requires more commitment than content creation.
“Content creation is quick… you get an idea, film it, move on. Acting is deeper. You have to understand the character, feel their emotions, and carry their story,” she said.
She added that she now gravitates toward roles with emotional and cultural depth.
“I love roles that have depth. Stories that carry emotion, culture, mystery, something people will watch and say, ‘This one touched me.’”
Reacting to claims that influencers lack acting training, she said, “People will always talk. But one thing about me is that I’m putting in the work. I’m learning, training, and taking this career seriously. I prefer to let the work speak for me.”
She also acknowledged the sacrifices involved.
“Acting takes time, energy, emotions, sometimes even your peace… Starting something new also comes with fear, but I still chose it because the dream means so much to me. And honestly, it’s worth it.”
The Night Market features Tony Umeh, Tina Mba, Chidi Dike, Sydney Talker, Sexy Steel, Chichi, MC Lively, Pinki Debbie, James Brown, Hermes, Akeem Ogara and Rosemary Afuwape.
