Starspillz Exclusive Interview with Award-Winning Actress Ugonna Okore

In today’s spotlight, Starspillz sits down with one of Nollywood’s most captivating and versatile talents, Ugonna Okore. Hailing from Abia State, this award-winning actress has carved a name for herself through powerful performances in films such as Love Me Right, Etiti, Chetam, Inches Apart, and This Is Not Heaven. With grace, depth, and undeniable screen presence, Ugonna continues to leave audiences wanting more. Here’s how our conversation unfolded:

Starspillz: Ugonna, it’s such a pleasure having you with us today. Let’s start from the beginning what inspired your journey into acting?

Ugonna Okore: Thank you so much for having me! My journey into acting was born out of a deep love for storytelling. Growing up in Abia State, I was always drawn to drama and creative expression. I would watch Nollywood films and imagine myself in those roles. Over time, that passion grew into something I knew I had to pursue seriously.

Starspillz: Do you mind sharing how you started acting and how you got your first role?

Ugonna Okore: I started acting when a course mate invited me for a production. That was when I realized God had put this gift in me. After my youth service, I moved to Lagos for an audition and got picked that’s how I landed my first movie role.

Starspillz: You’ve starred in several acclaimed movies. Which project would you say challenged you the most?

Ugonna Okore: That would definitely be Inches Apart. The role demanded emotional vulnerability and a level of intensity that pushed me beyond my comfort zone. It was both exhausting and fulfilling, and I learned so much about myself as an actress during that process.

Starspillz: Your performance in This Is Not Heaven earned you major recognition. How did that feel?

Ugonna Okore: It was incredibly humbling. That project was special to me because of the message it carried. Being recognized for it reminded me that hard work truly pays off, and it motivated me to keep striving for excellence.

Starspillz: Nollywood is growing rapidly. How do you stay relevant in such a competitive industry?

Ugonna Okore: Consistency and self-improvement. I’m always learning whether it’s attending workshops, studying scripts deeply, or watching other actors. Also, staying authentic and choosing roles that resonate with me has helped me stand out.

Starspillz: Tell us about your experience working on Chetam and Etiti. Any memorable moments?

Ugonna Okore: Oh, absolutely! Both productions were amazing in different ways. On Chetam, the cast had such great chemistry it felt like family. Etiti was more intense, but I loved every moment of bringing that story to life. There were long nights and challenging scenes, but those are the moments that make the craft worthwhile.

Starspillz: That’s beautiful. Tell us about your new projects, the challenges if any, and what fans should expect.

Ugonna Okore: (Laughs) I’m currently playing a manipulative mother to a 10 year old imagine that! It’s quite a role. I would have said there’s no challenge, but manipulating a child as a mother? Think about it (laughs). Trying to get into the child’s head while still being their only confidant is no easy feat. But as an actor, you’ve got to always show up and show out!

Fans should definitely expect to be thrilled and go on an exciting journey with me.

Starspillz: There’s been a conversation that female actors seem to strive more than male actors. Do you agree?

Ugonna Okore: I believe we all strive in our different ways as individuals, at different paces and times.

Starspillz: What do you think should be done to improve movie productions in Nollywood?

Ugonna Okore: Collaborations and more effective filmmaking classes across every department would go a long way.

Starspillz: How do you handle rejection or criticism?

Ugonna Okore: I’ve come to see it as God closing one door to open a bigger and better one. It wasn’t easy at first, but I’ve learned that not every “no” is bad for you.

Starspillz: What do you do to relax and recharge?

Ugonna Okore: I love watching movies and meeting new, exciting people.

Starspillz: What advice would you give to aspiring actors, especially those from smaller states like Abia?

Ugonna Okore: Never let your background limit you. Talent knows no boundaries. Stay focused, be patient, and keep honing your craft. Opportunities may not come immediately, but persistence is key.

Starspillz: What’s next for Ugonna Okore? Any upcoming projects we should watch out for?

Ugonna Okore: Yes! I have a couple of exciting projects in the works that I can’t wait to share. They’re quite different from what people are used to seeing from me, so I’m really excited for my fans to experience this new side.

Starspillz: Finally, how would you describe yourself in three words?

Ugonna Okore: Passionate, resilient, and evolving.

Starspillz: Beautifully said. Thank you for sharing your journey with us, Ugonna.

Ugonna Okore: Thank you for having me it’s been a pleasure!