Nollywood actress Yvonne Jegede has shaved off her natural hair for a role in an upcoming movie.
Sharing the update on her Instagram page on Sunday, the actress explained that the decision was necessary to embody the character entirely.
Jegede said she had been nurturing the hair for 10 years before going bald, noting that she needed a physical transformation to connect deeper with the character beyond dialogue and emotions.
The movie star emphasized that her dedication to her craft knows no bounds, and she is willing to push boundaries to deliver exceptional performances.
Aside from going bald for a movie role, Yvonne Jegede also revealed that she is learning to speak the proper Yoruba language.
She wrote, “I have always believed that to tell a story authentically, you must be willing to give everything to the role—even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone. This belief guided my decision to cut my hair for my ongoing movie, “AJA.” It wasn’t an easy decision, but for me, it was necessary to fully embody the character I’ve been entrusted to bring to life.
““AJA” is a powerful film produced by the incredibly talented Titi Orire, and it tells a story that demands depth and transformation. We’re currently filming in Badagry, Nigeria, a location that adds to the richness and authenticity of the story. The movie features some of Nollywood’s finest talents, including Rotimi Fakunle, Bianca Ugowanne, Gbohunmi David, and there’s a special appearance from a big name in the industry that I know will excite audiences.
“For this role, I knew I had to go beyond just the dialogue and emotions; I needed to make a physical transformation that would connect me even deeper with the character. Cutting my hair wasn’t just about changing my appearance; it was about shedding my comfort and embracing a new side of myself for the sake of the story. I’ve always believed that as an actor, you have to be ready to push boundaries, and this role is definitely doing that for me.
“This decision also reflects my dedication to my craft. I take acting seriously, and I believe in fully immersing myself in every role I take on. “AJA” is a unique project that will challenge me, and I’m ready to give it everything I have. It’s not just about looking the part but becoming the character from the inside out.
“I love my job too much not to take risks… I see myself as a tool to convey the appropriate message; if the script deserves it, I will do whatever needs to be done to give the story life. Apart from this drastic change, I am learning to speak proper Yoruba language.”
