Phyna noted that endorsement deals and other opportunities diminish over time, making it difficult for former reality stars to maintain a luxury lifestyle.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Actress, model and former Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) winner, Ijeoma Josephina Otabor, popularly known as Phyna, has opened up after a viral video of her working at a restaurant set tongues wagging online.
The reality TV star went home with a grand prize worth ₦100 million after emerging as the winner of the “Level Up” edition of BBNaija in 2022.
She, however, became a trending topic after streamer Davrel spotted her serving customers at a restaurant and subsequently shared the video.
In the now-viral clip, Phyna appeared uncomfortable about being filmed and questioned why the camera was suddenly focused on her while she worked.
She consequently faced a backlash on social media, as netizens—left wondering what could have happened to the reality star’s fame, endorsements, and fortune—queried her lifestyle choices.
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Reacting to the criticism in a follow-up video, Phyna made it clear that she had nothing to be ashamed of.
According to her, things are no longer as easy as they used to be since her BBNaija win, and she chose to work rather than rely on social media appearances or pretend to live a fake lifestyle.
“What is wrong if I am actually working as a sales girl at a restaurant? Why the bashing?” she asked.
Phyna went on to explain that influencing opportunities and endorsement deals reduce over time, making it difficult for many former reality stars to maintain the luxury lifestyle fans expect of them.
“What would you have me do when brands no longer want people to influence for them?” she added.
