Nollywood star Zubby Michael has opened up about a deliberate personal choice that shaped his rise in the film industry, revealing why he stayed away from romantic relationships during the early phase of his career.
In a candid interview with Broadway TV, the actor explained that his decision was driven by focus, discipline, and a clear understanding of what he needed to succeed at the time.
While building his reputation, particularly during his years working in Asaba, he chose to avoid emotional commitments that could potentially distract him.
“I’ve been scared of women… I’ve been working hard but now I want to give it a chance,” he said, reflecting on how intensely he approached his craft. According to him, relationships during that period could have introduced emotional pressure that might have affected his performance on set.
“Maybe had it been I get girlfriend I fit no reach here… if you disturb me mentally it will affect my work,” he added, describing how personal issues could easily spill into professional life in an industry that demands constant mental presence.
For Zubby, the choice was not rooted in negativity toward relationships, but in timing.
He emphasized that relationships come with responsibilities that require emotional availability, something he felt he could not afford while trying to establish himself.
In his view, early career success required full concentration, especially in a competitive space like Nollywood, where consistency and visibility are critical.
Now, his perspective is shifting.
Having achieved a level of stability, including owning his own home, the actor says he is more open to exploring love and relationships. “There’s time for everything… now I can say, okay, let’s see how it goes,” he said, suggesting that personal readiness plays a key role in when to pursue companionship.
His comments reflect a broader reality faced by many young professionals balancing ambition and personal life. The tension between career growth and emotional commitment is a recurring theme, particularly in industries that demand long hours, travel, and intense focus.
Beyond his own experience, Zubby Michael has previously stirred conversation around relationships in a lighter context. In a viral moment with Rachael Okonkwo, he joked that her financial success might be intimidating potential partners, a remark that sparked its own debate.
Rachael responded with a contrasting perspective, stressing that building a strong personal foundation should not be seen as a barrier to marriage.
She questioned why interest often appears only after success, rather than during periods of struggle, and made it clear she values purpose-driven relationships over dependency.
Together, both viewpoints highlight evolving attitudes toward love, success, and partnership within modern Nigerian society. While traditional expectations still exist, more individuals are redefining timelines and priorities in line with personal growth and stability.
Zubby Michael’s story adds another layer to that conversation. His journey suggests that for some, delaying relationships is not avoidance but a strategy, a calculated decision to secure one phase of life before stepping into another.
Now, with his career firmly established, the actor appears ready to explore what comes next, this time, with space for love.
