RMD: Soyinka Invited Me to Audition While Married to My Late Wife’s Best Friend in ’90s

Veteran Nollywood actor Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, has revealed how his persistence in seeking an opportunity to work with Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka eventually opened an important door in his acting career.

The actor shared the experience during an interview with Olive Emodi on her podcast on Friday, October 30, 2026, while discussing some of the influential personalities who contributed to his professional development.

RMD explained that he had admired Soyinka for a long time and was eager to work with the renowned playwright. He disclosed that their eventual meeting was made possible through a personal connection, as Soyinka was married to his late wife’s best friend at the time.

According to the actor, he consistently expressed his desire to work with the literary icon whenever they had the opportunity to interact.

His persistence eventually attracted Soyinka’s attention, leading to an invitation to Abeokuta, where he was asked to audition for a stage production.

RMD recalled that the audition became a significant opportunity in his career, as he was eventually selected to participate in the production.

Following his selection, the actor travelled with Soyinka to Italy for the stage play, giving him an opportunity to gain valuable international theatrical experience.

Reflecting on how the opportunity came about, RMD said:

“When I met Soyinka in the early ‘90s, he was married to my late wife’s best friend. I kept saying, ‘I want to work with Prof.’ He gave me an opportunity to come to Abeokuta for an audition.”

Watch the video from stamp time 10:00-10:17 HERE

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