"When I started ‘I Need To Know’, I never thought I would be this celebrated"

(Endowed Blogs.)

play Funke Akindele wins Best Actress in a Comedy at the 2017 AMVCAs

 On this week's CNN’s ‘African Voices’, Nigerian filmmaker Funke Akindele-Bello talked about her career and decision to focus on upcoming stars.

Akindele has been a household name since hers days on the screen as Bisi in "I Need to Know."

According to her, she didn't expect her acting journey to become this celebrated.

“When I started ‘I Need To Know’, I never thought I would be this celebrated. I was 20 years old then," explained Funke Akindele.

"When I shot the pilot I just wanted to do it, I wanted to showcase my God-given talent. I remember the director telling me I was overacting because I was excited about it."

play Funke Akindele in episode five of "Jenifa's Diary" season 1

Funke explained why her hilarious character as Jenifa in "Jenifa's Diary," has continued to appeal to the audience.

“Jenifa is witty, she’s crazy, she’s a go getter, she doesn’t want to take no for an answer and I think I have that – I don’t want to take no for an answer," the actress said.

play JJC Skillz, Funke AKindele and the SOP artists
(Scene One Productions)

Akindele's new music-oriented show "Industreet" makes its debut today, Friday, May 26, 2017.

Speaking about the series which debuts new acts, the actress said, “We reach out to young people, we empower them.

"We help them acquire skills, we help them discover their special gift, their talent in acting and music and dance.”

play Funke Akindele rocking an overflowing gown.
(Bella Naija)

Funke Akindele came into limelight after her role in "I Need to Know," which ran from 1998 to 2002.

She can be seen next in "Isoken," which debuts on June 16, 2017.