Funke Akindele Biography, Age, Parents, Husband, Children, Movies, Net Worth

Funke Akindele, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated actresses and filmmakers, has achieved tremendous success on-screen and off. Best known for her role in the blockbuster comedy Jenifa, she has become a household name in Nollywood and beyond. From her early days starring in the educational series I Need to Know to producing the highest-grossing Nollywood movie Omo Ghetto: The Saga, Funke has consistently pushed the boundaries of Nigerian cinema.

In recent years, Funke has also ventured into politics, making headlines as the Lagos State deputy governorship candidate under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections.

According to reliable sources, Funke continues to inspire millions as a successful entrepreneur, actress, and politician, with a reported net worth of $7.6 million. This article delves deeper into her illustrious career, personal life, and lasting impact on Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

Funke Akindele Biography

Full Name:	Akindele-Bello Olufunke Ayotunde
Stage Name:	Funke Akindele
Born:	24 August 1977
Place of Birth:	Ikorodu, Lagos, Nigeria
State Of Origin:	Lagos State
Nationality:	Nigerian
Height:	1.68 m
Parents:	N/A
Siblings:	Abimbola Maria Akindele
Husband • Spouse:	JJC (m. 2016, Divorced. 2022), Kehinde Oloyede (m. 2012–2013)
Boyfriend • Partner:	N/A
Children:	Tamira Bello, Benito Bello, Josiah Bello
Occupation:	Actress • TV Personality
Net Worth:	$7.6 million

Early Life and Education

Funke Akindele (born on August 24, 1977, 48 years old) hails from Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria. She was raised in a middle-class family: Her mother was a medical doctor, and her father was a retired school principal. Funke completed her primary and secondary education in Lagos before earning a degree in Mass Communication from Moshood Abiola Polytechnic and later a Law degree from the University of Lagos.

Career Breakthrough with “I Need to Know”

Funke Akindele’s rise to fame began in the late 1990s when she starred in the Nigerian sitcom I Need to Know, sponsored by the United Nations Population Fund. Her role as Bisi, a curious teenager, earned her widespread recognition.

The Success of “Jenifa” and Its Cultural Impact

Funke’s major career breakthrough came in 2008 when she produced and starred in Jenifa. This comedy-drama showcased the life of a streetwise girl from a village trying to make it in Lagos. The movie was a huge success, and the character Jenifa became a cultural icon. Funke later turned this into a series, Jenifa’s Diary, which continues to attract large viewership across Africa.

Nollywood Contributions and Awards

Over the years, Funke Akindele has cemented her place as one of Nigeria’s most influential actresses and producers. She has worked on numerous successful movies and television shows as an actor and producer. Omo Ghetto: The Saga became the highest-grossing Nollywood movie in history, surpassing ₦636 million at the Nigerian box office.

Her contributions to the Nigerian film industry have not gone unnoticed. Funke has received numerous awards, including:

• Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA) – Best Actress in a Comedy for Jenifa’s Diary.
• Nigeria Entertainment Awards – Best Actress for her performance in various Nollywood films.
• Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) – Best Actress in a Leading Role​ – Creebhills

Political Career

In 2022, Funke Akindele made headlines by entering politics. She was selected as the running mate of the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) gubernatorial candidate for Lagos State, Olajide Adediran, in the 2023 elections. Although the election was lost, Funke’s decision to participate in politics signaled her growing influence beyond the entertainment industry.

Entrepreneurial Ventures and Philanthropy

Funke Akindele is not just an actress and filmmaker; she’s also a successful entrepreneur. She co-owns SceneOne TV, an online streaming platform where viewers can access her TV series, including Jenifa’s Diary. Additionally, she is involved in various philanthropic activities, primarily focused on children’s welfare and empowerment through her Jenifa Foundation.

Luxury Assets and Net Worth

Known for her luxurious lifestyle, Funke Akindele owns multiple high-end properties in Lagos and a fleet of luxury cars, including a Bentley, Lexus SUV, and a House.

Funke Akindele’s net worth is estimated at $7.6 million, making her one of the wealthiest actresses in Nigeria.

Personal Life

Funke was previously married to Kehinde Oloyede, but the marriage ended in 2013. In 2016, she married Abdulrasheed Bello, also known as JJC Skillz. The couple welcomed twins in 2018 but later announced their separation in 2022.

Expanded Discography and Filmography

In addition to her acting, Funke Akindele has a rich filmography. Her notable films include:

• Omo Ghetto (2010)
• Jenifa (2008)
• A Trip to Jamaica (2016)
• Chief Daddy (2018)
• Your Excellency (2019)

Her continued success in both television and film has earned her a revered position in Nollywood.

Industry Opinions and Reviews

Funke’s work has been critically acclaimed for its humor, depth, and cultural relevance. Her films address various societal issues, often through satire and comedy. Critics and industry experts frequently cite her as a transformative figure in Nollywood, particularly her ability to create relatable yet commercially successful content.

Improvements in Experience: Quotes from Funke Akindele

In a 2023 interview with BBC Pidgin, Funke reflected on her journey: “Success didn’t come overnight. There were challenges, but I believed in my craft and kept pushing. Jenifa wasn’t just a character; she was a symbol of resilience”.

Conclusion

Funke Akindele is a celebrated Nollywood actress, politician, and philanthropist. Her journey from I Need to Know to creating the highest-grossing Nollywood movie and venturing into politics is an inspiring testament to her versatility and influence in Nigerian society.

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