Her real
name is Juliana Olayode but you know her as Toyo Baby, the patient friend of Jennifer
played by Funke Akindele in the popular soap, Jenifa’s Diary. Young, talented
and devoid of controversies, Toyo Baby spoke to KemiashefonLovehaven in this
exclusive interview:
You are very new to
the screen, when did you graduate from school?
never went to the university. I did try initially but it didn’t work out.
Instead of spending more years trying, I decided to follow my passion, acting.
I intend on getting certifications that would improve me as an actress.
I
have always loved acting. Right from childhood, even in my every day
interactions with family and friends, I’ve been very dramatic; always talking,
gesticulating, being naughty, to mention a few. Acting is in me. Most of my
friends know I have always said I would be the best actress in the world. This
seems like a lofty goal but that’s how much acting means to me. I guess
one other attraction I have to acting is that it affords me the “rare
luxury” of becoming anything I want to be. It’s like living in another
world.
Is Jenifa’s Diary
your first attempt on TV?
No, it is not. I had been on other movie sets before the series.
How did you get the
role?
My
friend, Tope Dada, sent me an Audition B.C. (Broadcast message) and I went for
the auditions. I scaled three stages of auditions and finally got picked to act
the sub lead role of Toyosi. It was God all the way and I would forever be
thankful.
How has clinching
the role helped your career?
Jenifa’s
Diary has been a great boost to my career. It has given me a platform to
showcase my God-given talent to the world. I have had the rare privilege of
meeting many top guns in the industry because of this platform. I definitely
look forward to a wonderful career.
Are you involved in
other soaps? Movies?
I
am not involved in any other soap as at now but I have featured in a couple of
movies. I’m presently preparing to go on another movie set.
How do you handle
the fame being ‘Toyo baby’ has thrust on you?
It has been challenging and fun at the same time. I have to be careful what I
look like when I leave the house. Almost everywhere I go, someone recognizes me
and many times, people want selfies. It was strange and embarrassing at times
initially but I’m getting used to it now. It feels good to know people love what
I do. That’s my fulfillment, above the fame.
How has acting
alongside Funke Akindele helped your career?
I
have learnt from her. Acting with her has made me know that acting is no joke, its
serious business. And if you must do it, you must give it your best. She takes
her job serious and is very hard working. I would always take that with me.
Were there times you
felt like quitting?
Yes,
a couple of times. The major bane has been the challenge of selecting the kind
of movies to feature in. I’m a Christian and have strong values, so it
sometimes gets discouraging when it seems opportunities for people like me
aren’t as many.
Are you in any
relationship?
No,
I am not as at today.
Who
is Toyo Baby?
I am
Olayode Juliana. I am the last girl in a family of eight. I was born and
brought up in Lagos. I am from Ogun State. I worship at The Ark, a church for
young adults and I’m a proud advocate of sexual purity. I love people, I love
adventure, I love having fun, and I enjoy laughing. Apart from acting, I sing,
dance, write and enjoy making jokes.
My
dream is to become the best actress in the world without letting go of my
values and my love for God.
What
are your plans for Nollywood? Or you just want to stick with Jenifa’s
diary?
I intend to further my career in Nollywood aggressively, featuring in movies
and series and making a mark in the industry. Jenifa’s Diary is my major
starting point.
Describe yourself
in a word?
PASSIONATE