Tayo Faniran: How being called ‘worst actor’ by Charles Novia inspired my career

Tayo Faniran, the Nollywood actor, says the controversial comment made by Charles Novia, the filmmaker, in 2015, inspired his career.   

Speaking with Ebuka Obi-Uchendu on the Rubbin Minds show, the reality TV star recounted his journey back into showbiz. 

In 2015, Novia called Faniran the “worst actor on Nigeria TV”. The filmmaker would later apologise, saying he has “no hard feelings” towards the actor. 

1. My award for the worst actor on Nigerian tv presently, would be the ex-BBA housemate, Tayo Faniran who's standing in for Gbenro in TINSEL

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— charles novia (@charlesnovia) September 2, 2015

Hi Tayo. Both our words might have been harsh back then in expressing the evaluation of your artistry and the eventual riposte from you. No hard feelings whatsoever and your rapprochement years later underlines a nobility in you. By all means, soar in your career!God bless you.

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— charles novia (@charlesnovia) April 9, 2023

Reflecting on the incident, Faniran, who starred in the movie ‘Gangs of Lagos‘, said Novia’s comment was a “major fuel that kept pushing me”. 

“Charles Novia, much respect, he is a big brother of mine. We have ironed it out. What happened was that, despite the fact that I didn’t forget, I still have fans from Big Brother,” he said.

“Someone sent me a message that he was praying that one day Charles Novia would regret what he said. The moment he sent it, I laughed and said I was going to post it. 

“I reached out to him. For real, I did mean it. I am so sorry for my reaction at that time. I was younger. I had not filter then. I apologized and he also did the same and we moved on. 

“However, that was a major fuel that kept on pushing me and not just Charles Novia. As long as I know that you don’t believe in me or undermine me, you are helping me.”