According to Punch Newspaper, Veteran Nollywood actor Dele Odule has opened up about one of the darkest periods of his life, revealing that he once visited a casket shop to price his own coffin during a time of deep frustration and hopelessness.
The respected Yoruba movie star made the revelation during an interview with Feelright TV, where he spoke candidly about the emotional struggles he faced despite his long-standing career in the Nigerian film industry.
According to Odule, the experience happened at a point when he felt his life and career were no longer progressing. The actor said he had become discouraged after comparing his achievements with those of his former classmates and peers.
Speaking in Yoruba during the interview, the actor recalled that fellow Nollywood actor Olaiya Igwe accompanied him during the visit to the casket seller.
“I had priced my own casket before, when I was in a state of hopelessness, and complete loss of hope. Olaiya Igwe went there with me. Olaiya started crying like a baby,” he said.
Odule clarified that he was not battling any illness at the time, stressing that his emotional state was driven mainly by disappointment and frustration over his perceived lack of success.
“I wasn’t sick, I just believed I can no longer have breakthroughs in the industry. I was fed up. Because all my school mates are doing far better than me and my life was nothing to write home about,” he added.
The emotional confession has sparked reactions on social media, with many Nigerians expressing sympathy and admiration for the actor’s honesty about mental and emotional struggles.
Several fans also praised Odule for speaking openly about depression and hopelessness, issues many people silently battle despite outward appearances of strength or success.
Odule remains one of the most recognised faces in Yoruba cinema, having begun his acting career in the 1970s. He rose to prominence after starring in the classic Yoruba movie Ti Oluwa Nile, which cemented his place in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Over the years, the actor has featured in numerous Nollywood productions and has earned respect for his longevity and contribution to the growth of indigenous filmmaking in Nigeria.
His recent revelation has once again highlighted the pressures faced by entertainers and public figures, many of whom struggle privately with emotional and financial challenges despite their fame and popularity.
