Veteran Nollywood actor Don Richard, popularly known on stage as Don or Ota (Bullet), has opened up about his role in mentoring fellow actor Ibrahim Yekini in the early stages of his career.
In a heartfelt interview on the official YouTube channel of FeelrightNewsTv, Don Richard recounted how he was instrumental in shaping Yekini’s journey in the Nigerian film industry. He revealed that a close friend entrusted Ibrahim Yekini to his care, believing in his potential and seeking guidance for the budding actor.
“Ibrahim Yekini was brought to me by a friend who asked me to help build him. He was a humble and loyal young man, so I took it upon myself to mentor him,” Don Richard shared during the interview. “I started grooming him by creating and packaging small movie projects to help him grow and develop his skills.“
Known for his commanding presence and tough-guy roles in Yoruba Nollywood films, Don Richard emphasized that he has always believed in giving back by supporting upcoming talent. He expressed his passion for uplifting the next generation of actors, noting that his efforts were driven by a desire to see young stars succeed.
The actor’s revelations have sparked admiration from fans and colleagues, who praised his generosity and influence in the industry. His story stands as a testament to the power of mentorship and the impact experienced actors can have in shaping the future of Nollywood.
According to Don Richard, providing a platform for emerging actors to showcase their talent is crucial for the continued growth of the film industry. He recounted how a close friend entrusted him with the task of mentoring a young Ibrahim Yekini during a pivotal moment in the actor’s early career.
Don Richard explained that it was Yekini’s humility and unwavering loyalty that inspired him to invest his time, effort, and resources into nurturing the aspiring talent. He saw potential in Yekini and was determined to help him succeed.
Today, Ibrahim Yekini, popularly known as Itele d’Icon, has risen to become one of Nollywood’s top actors, celebrated for his versatility and commanding presence in action-packed roles. His journey reflects the impact of early support and mentorship in building successful careers in the entertainment industry.