Clinton Joshua rejects kissing roles to avoid typecasting, while Etinosa Idemudia says intimacy scenes are normal in Nollywood

Nollywood actor Clinton Joshua has said he deliberately avoids kissing scenes in films, citing concerns about typecasting and long-term career direction.

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Clinton explained that his decision is shaped by a desire to maintain control over the roles he is offered and the image he projects on screen.

Clinton Joshua noted that actors who excel in certain types of scenes often find themselves repeatedly cast in similar roles.

“If I’m good at it, producers will likely give me the same role over and over again and I don’t want to kiss half the girls in Nollywood,” Clinton Joshua said.

The actor added that he remains intentional about building a diverse and sustainable career, carefully selecting roles that align with his professional goals.

The comments come amid a growing conversation within the Nigerian film industry about how intimacy scenes are handled and perceived.

Offering a contrasting perspective, Nollywood actress Etinosa Idemudia defended the use of kissing and hugging scenes as a standard element of filmmaking.

Etinosa Idemudia said such scenes should not be treated differently from other aspects of acting.

Etinosa emphasised that professionalism requires actors to fully embody their characters and detach once filming ends.

“Intimacy scenes in Nollywood are like any other scenes. Once the director says ‘cut,’ everyone is normal,” Etinosa Idemudia said.

Etinosa Idemudia further noted that emotional discipline is a key part of acting, adding that she does not experience personal feelings during such scenes.

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The differing views highlight an evolving and sometimes sensitive debate within Nollywood, as actors continue to balance personal boundaries with the creative demands of storytelling in a dynamic and fast-growing industry.