Bridget Chigbufue, a TV presenter, was the first runner-up of the Next Movie Star (NMS) reality TV show in 2012. The actress, who hosted the recent NMS, tells Reporter, REGINA WHENU, about her career and passion.
What did you study at the University of Benin (UNIBEN), and how has it helped your career?
I studied Agricultural Economics and Extension while in school. I love the course, although it is not much of what I am practising right now. But there is one thing common between my degree and my passion… and that is communication.
Could you tell us how you started your career?
I have actually been acting for a short while before going for the reality show. It was after the reality TV show in 2012 that I started my presenting career and continued acting professionally.
My very first job was a sub-lead in Open Heavens with Lancelot Imasuen as director. I appreciate the fact that he gave me an opportunity to prove myself, after which I acted in other productions such as White House, Dormitory 8, Tough Ladies, The Diary, Betrayed and a few others.
As for my presenting career, hosting red carpets, personality interviews, meeting people not to forget being dressed up glamorously felt amazing, and I would not give it up for anything. It was an all new experience which got better as time passed like fine wine.
Between acting and broadcasting, which do you enjoy more?
I enjoy both equally. There is nothing like the feeling I get when I am in front of the camera on set, on the red carpet, during an interview. It is a feeling of fulfilment, a breath of fresh air.
What do you like most about your profession?
The fact that I get to be different personalities on set, meet different people, mingle, look picture perfect, and meet people who share your drive. Funny but true, my profession helps me to be socially up to date, outspoken and friendly.
Which among the movies you featured in was your favourite?
That would be Dormitory 8, a TV series where I played the role of a ‘bush’ Calabar woman, heavily accented girl named Nse. It was a very challenging role for me. I had to do a lot of research, which was interesting. The second would be Betrayed, an Africa Magic original film production because I played with a lot of emotions.
What are some of your best moments in your professional life?
Every moment has been a memorable one, especially when I am told that I am needed for an important role in a movie. The feeling is not measurable at all, or are we talking of when I am about interviewing a sought-after personality, or when I am being fitted for a designer’s outfit like Ayo Van Elmar, Gozel Green Couture etc. Awesome feeling, I tell you.
The best is when people, colleagues and interviewees tell you that they love what you are doing and that you are good at what you do. It means you are where you ought to be.
Like everyone else, you must have faced some challenges in your career at a point in time.
Yes, of course, I have faced challenges, especially when I just started going for auditions, not knowing how to impress the judges, because no one knew my face. Even in presenting, sometimes using the wrong words unknowingly while carrying out an interview could result in a query. The stigma of ‘know me know you’ in the industry, which is still predominant, especially among producers and casting directors who are okay with using known faces over and over again. A lot. But as Alicia Keys said it will only get better.
How have your life experiences shaped your person?
My life experiences have influenced my ‘me’ of today in the sense that I am more friendly, confident and courteous. I am not afraid of being told a ‘no’; it makes me want to persist and fight stronger. I am stronger, and I actually have a high threshold of tolerance and adaptability, plus I am much more humble.
What is the most important lesson you have learnt in your career?
In my career, I have learnt that you never underestimate anyone, especially in the entertainment industry. Confidence, persistence and patience are the fuel to drive my passion. A good sense of humour helps to reduce stress. Creativity should be constantly renewed.
How do you maintain a work/life balance?
Frankly, I have not been doing too well with that (laughs). Work has taken 70 per cent of my time so much that once I am not working, I am trying to fix myself and catch a nap. But with time, I will make it 50:50.
Which female personalities do you admire and why?
I admire Mrs. Folorunsho Alakija; she is an epitome of a strong-willed, industrious woman, mother and Christian. I admire Mo’ Abudu. I think she is a go-getter and a woman who is bold and not afraid to take on anyone. I also admire Giuliana of E! Entertainment channel; she is a fantastic presenter, stylish as always and well contained.
Another person I admire is Rita Dominic, for her versatility in acting, and a few others.
What item of clothing would you not leave home without?
My bra and the outfit itself (laughter).
How many trophies do you see yourself winning in five years?
By God’s grace, quite a number of them, I believe. I will keep my fingers crossed and keep my game tight. Of course, it also depends on you all, for your support when the time comes. Thank you.
 reality TV show in 2012. The actress, who hosted the recent NMS, tells Reporter, REGINA WHENU, about her career and passion.){kind=link}