Up Close with Cynthia: Bold, Tough & Charming
By Otello Team | June 20, 2025
Otello Magazine Exclusive – Artist Feature: Cynthia Chinyelugo
She’s fierce on screen, soft-spoken off-screen, and undoubtedly one of the rising stars in the Nigerian Movie industry. As she celebrates her birthday on June 20, we get up close and personal with actress Cynthia Nneka Chinyelugo, a woman who walks into a role and wears it like a second skin. In this exclusive chat, she opens up about her journey into acting, the mental shift behind tough scenes, and what she’d be doing if she wasn’t in front of the camera.
🎭 From Childhood Dreams to Camera Lights
How did acting begin for you?
"Acting has always been what I wanted to do when I grew up," Nneka smiles. "As a child, I loved watching movies and dreamed of being the one people watched someday. I tried to venture into it early, but my dad was totally against it. So when I came of age and could make my own decisions, I knew I had to try again — and here I am."
Do you have a favorite movie you've acted in?
She chuckles. "It’s hard to pick a favorite. I give my best in all my roles, so every project holds a special place for me."
What type of scene challenges you most?
“Any scene that doesn't align with who I am naturally is tough. When I get a role, I usually relate it to my real self. But when a role is totally my opposite, I have to dig deeper to become that character — and that’s where the real challenge lies.”
How do you prepare for emotionally intense roles?
“Simple. I just get into character,” she says, with the calm assurance of someone who’s found her rhythm.
Which character has been most like you in real life?
“That’s a hard one,” she admits. “Because truthfully, I can be whoever you want me to be — I reflect a lot of people. But if I had to describe myself through a character, I’d say: bold, tough, and charming.”
🎬 Behind the Scenes
What was the vibe like on your favorite sets?
“Friendly. Fun. Comfortable,” she says instantly. “We had such positive energy. Everyone related well. We shared ideas, played games during breaks — and the welfare of everyone was taken seriously. It was one of those sets you look forward to every day.”
Any funny or unexpected moments during filming?
“None that I can remember clearly,” she laughs, “but I’m sure there were some good laughs.”
How do you handle pressure or mistakes on set?
“I encourage myself. I take a breath, pull myself together, and keep going.”
🌍 Off-Screen, still a Star
What do you enjoy outside acting?
“Spending time with myself. I also enjoy putting stories together — that’s my creative escape.”
What advice would you give young actors watching you?
“Please, know what you want. Don’t let desperation blur who you really are. Stay grounded.”
🎯 Quick Fire with Cynthia
☕ Tea or Coffee?
“Tea.”
🎞️ Guilty Pleasure Movie or Show?
“Tom and Jerry!”
🍳 If not acting, what would you be doing today?
“I’d be a restaurateur. I love cooking!”