This article on Genevieve Nnaji Net Worth and biography encompasses minute details of the Nollywood veteran ranging from her net worth to her daughter and baby daddy. Keep reading to find out more about this veteran.
Genevive Nnaji, fondly called “Genny” by her fans is a talented Nigerian actress, model, and film producer whose grace and talents shine brightly on and off our screen. She is known widely not only as a result of her acting prowess in movies but also for her timeless beauty.
Genevive Nnaji is a member of a small and influential A-list of actors within the country, just with her first name,” Genevieve,” she is easily identifiable. However, some questions may be plaguing you about this veteran actress, questions like did Genevieve go to school? Who is her husband? What is Genevive net worth? This article will provide you with a comprehensive biography of the Nollywood veteran.
Genevive Nnaji’s Profile
Birth Name | Genevive Nnaji |
Stage Name | Genevive Nnaji |
Date of Birth | May 3, 1979 |
Genevieve Nnaji Net Worth | Approximately, $12 million |
Wealth Source | Endorsements, Fashion, Real Estate, and Entertainment. |
Husband | Single and never been married |
Daughter’s Name | Chimebuka Theodora born 1999 |
Professional movie debut | 1998 “Most Wanted” |
First Movie Appearance | Ripples produced by Zeb Ejiro |
Her first ever movie produced | 2015 “Road to Yesterday” |
First movie as a director | 2018 “Lion Heart |
State of Origin | Imo State in Mbaise |
Primary / Secondary School/ University | Kemstar/ Methodist Girls’ College, Yaba/ University of Lagos |
Siblings | 7 |
Genevieve Nnaji Biography
Genevieve as a result of her outstanding talents, her ageless beauty, and her knack for keeping her life out of the media, is not only just the most popular when it comes to the feminine face in the acting industry in Nigeria, but she is also well-known and loved out of Nigeria as a whole.
She started her early days by schooling in the likes of Yaba when growing up to becoming among the individuals whose first names are easily used to identify them without needing a further introduction.
When you hear the name Genevieve within and across Africa and beyond, what is called to mind is the delectable image of the highly talented star from Mbaise in Imo state Nigeria.
Early Years and Schooling
Genevieve Nnaji was born on May 3, 1979, in Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria. She is the fourth of eight children in her family. Her father was an engineer, while her mother was a teacher. Genevieve faced difficulties securing movie roles in Surulere, the Film capital of Africa, during the early days of her career.
She was forced to hop from one audition to her next, all in pursuit of people to recognize her talent; in a very competitive atmosphere, Genevieve tasked herself with getting herself established against all odds.
Genevieve attended Kemstar elementary school situated in Surulere. She went on to Methodist Girls College in Yaba, Lagos, for her secondary education and later went on to study creative arts on a part-time basis at the University of Lagos. She later dropped out of the University in the late 90s as a result of being unable to juggle both schooling and her fast-rising acting career.
She appeared at the age of eight in the popular television soap opera “Ripples.” by Zeb Ejiro. However, her breakout role came in the year 1998, when she starred in the movie “Most Wanted,” directed by Tunji Bamishigbin.
Genevieve Nnaji had to as a result of economic constraints when her father lost his job twice and had to relocate from Surulere to Egebda, this move constrained her and her siblings to help their mother in her trade business.
Despite her early success, Genevieve faced several struggles in her career, including issues with piracy and a lack of adequate funding for the film industry in Nigeria. However, she persevered and became one of the most successful actresses in Nollywood, Nigeria’s film industry.
Pregnancy and Movie Breakthrough
In 1997, at the age of 18, Genevieve became pregnant and gave birth to her daughter, Theodora Chimebuka Nnaji. At the time, the news of her pregnancy caused a media frenzy in Nigeria, as premarital pregnancy was still somewhat of a taboo in the country.
Despite the initial backlash, Genevieve continued to pursue her acting career and landed a breakthrough role in the 2002 movie “Sharon Stone,” which was directed by Tade Ogidan. Her performance in the movie was widely praised, and it helped to cement her status as one of Hollywood’s leading actresses.
Before her role in the 2002 movie “Sharon Stone,” She struggled to persuade directors and producers to take a chance on her.
Director Elvis Obaseki remembers also how despondent and on the verge of tears Genevieve was when he opted against casting her in a movie role.
Five years later the table was turned and even though Obaseki offered Genevieve a large fee as to what she was to be paid when she would have acted in a movie years back, she turned it down.
Genevieve’s professional debut was in 1998 when she was featured in the movie “most wanted” in a Cameo role as a news reporter by Ralph Nwadike when she was 19.
In 2021, she was featured as the best actress of 2001 by the City People Magazine which before then only featured honored political and corporate figures.
Following her breakthrough in “Sharon Stone,” Genevieve went on to star in several successful movies, including “Ijele,” “Keeping Faith,” and “Mirror Boy.” She also received critical acclaim for her role in the 2005 movie “30 Days,” which was directed by her friend and mentor, Kunle Afolayan.
Genevieve’s pregnancy and acting breakthrough are both important moments in her life, as they showcase her resilience and determination to succeed in the face of adversity. They also demonstrate her talent as an actress and her ability to captivate audiences with her performances.
Nollywood Ban and Music
In 2005, Genevieve Nnaji was banned by the Association of Movie Marketers and Distributors of Nigeria (AMMD) from appearing in any Nollywood movie.
The reason for the ban was reportedly due to her high fees and the association’s desire to regulate the salaries of actors and actresses in the industry. The ban was not only targeted at her but it was to ban producers from recruiting big-name actors in the industry owing to pay demands.
Also taking royal seats on the ban lists were some of her colleagues like Stephanie Okereke, Stella Damasus, Rita Dominic, and Omotola Jalade Ekeinde. At the time they were collectively dubbed the “big five girls”
They were charging as much as 3 million naira for appearances in movies and the producers were quite unwilling to pay as there was a set budget for movies then.
Unemployed due to the ban, Genevieve ventured into music, releasing her debut album “One Logologo Line ” in 2004. The album, which was a fusion of R&B, hip-hop, and reggae, received mixed reviews but was still a commercial success.
Genevieve’s music career did not last long, as she soon shifted her focus back to acting. However, her foray into music showcased her versatility as an artist and her willingness to experiment with different genres.
Genevieve’s Nollywood ban was eventually lifted in 2009, and she resumed her acting career with a renewed passion. She went on to star in several successful movies, including “The Mirror Boy,” “Half of a Yellow Sun,” and “Lionheart,” which she also directed.
Overall, Genevieve’s ban and music career were significant moments in her career, showcasing her resilience and versatility as an artist. They also highlighted some of the challenges faced by actors and actresses in the Nigerian film industry and the need for better regulation and support for the industry.
Genevieve Nnaji Net Worth
When it comes to the acting profession, Genevieve Nnaji is the wealthiest in Nigeria with her net worth standing at about $12 million US and equivalent to #5 billion.
When her Netflix film “Lion Heart” premiered for an estimated $3.8 million, she became the first billionaire in Nollywood.
In Lekki corridors, Ikoyi, Abuja, and Ghana, Genevieve owns many choice properties and also owns a number of automobile fleets including luxury brands like Range Rover, BMW, and Mercedes Benz.
Endorsements
Genevieve has had very profitable endorsement partnerships with a diverse number of prestigious firms like Range Rover Evoque, Pronto, Amstel Malta, Etisalat, etc.
In 2004, Genevieve signed an endorsement deal with the telecoms giant, Globacom, which made her the face of the company’s advertising campaign for several years. She also endorsed brands such as Lux, Amstel Malta, Etisalat (now 9mobile), and Range Rover.
Genevieve’s endorsement deals have not only been lucrative but also helped to boost her image and increase her popularity. As a style icon, she has also collaborated with fashion brands such as St. Genevieve and Polo Avenue.
According to a study conducted in 2014, Genevieve has been dubbed the wealthiest celebrity in Nigeria based on endorsements alone surpassing the likes of D’banj, Wizkid, Don Jazzy, and P-Square.
Genevieve also became the face of Lux and she is the first Nigerian to achieve this feat placing her in the company of industry legends like Catherine Zeta-Jones, Demi Moore, and Marilyn Monroe, all of whom have graced the beauty soap as a front.
In 2019, Genevieve made history by becoming the first Nollywood actress to have her movie, “Lionheart,” acquired by the streaming giant, Netflix. The movie was also endorsed by the Nigerian government and showcased the talent and potential of the Nigerian film industry to a global audience.
Genevieve’s endorsements and achievements have made her a role model for young Nigerians and Africans, and she continues to inspire others with her talent, hard work, and dedication to her craft.
Fashion
Genevieve Nnaji is widely regarded as a fashion icon in Nigeria and beyond. Her impeccable sense of style and fashion-forward looks have earned her numerous accolades and made her a favorite among fashion enthusiasts.
She has appeared on fashion runways and also modeled for diverse clothing brands. She created a clothing line called St. Genevieve in the year 2008.
How Much Does Genevieve Earn Per Movie?
Genevieve’s earning power is not only limited to her acting career. She is also a successful entrepreneur and has made significant investments in real estate and other ventures. She has also earned millions of dollars from her endorsement deals and collaborations with fashion and beauty brands.
She was the first to earn a seven-figure for a movie appearance. In the year 2000, she earned roughly between 3 and 4 million naira for every screenplay. She was paid about $25000 for her role in a 2010 smash hit” Ije”.
Genevieve Nnaji’s Husband
Genevieve Nnaji is a very private person when it comes to her personal life and has never publicly confirmed being married. There have been rumors and speculations about her relationships, but she has never confirmed any of them.
In October 2015, she claimed the dread of having a failed marriage is the main reason why she failed to marry
In 2016, there were rumors that Genevieve had gotten married in a secret wedding ceremony, but she later denied the rumors in an interview with the media, stating that she was still single and searching.
Genevieve has always kept her personal life away from the public eye and has not shared any information about her romantic relationships or potential partners. She is focused on her career and her family, which includes her daughter, whom she had when she was still a teenager.
Genevive’s Daughter and Baby Daddy
Genevieve Nnaji has a daughter named Theodora Chimebuka Nnaji, who was born in 1999. This decision ultimately led her to drop out of school. She admitted to discovering the pregnancy about four months into the pregnancy to a now-defunct Treasure Magazine. She also admitted to her parents not knowing she was pregnant till when she was 7 months into the pregnancy.
The identity of her daughter’s father has remained a mystery, as Genevieve has never publicly revealed his name, but a US-based socialite known as Dotun Oladipo, also known as Acura was rumored to be her baby’s father, although he didn’t deny having anything to do with her, he just denied being the father.
In an interview, Genevieve stated that she made the decision to keep her daughter’s father’s identity private to protect her family’s privacy and maintain their dignity. She also emphasized the importance of women taking responsibility for their actions and the consequences that come with them.
Genevieve has always been very private about her personal life, and she has successfully shielded her daughter from the public eye, allowing her to grow up away from the media attention. However, Theodora has occasionally accompanied her mother to events, where they have been photographed together.
Genevieve Nnaji’s daughter’s father’s identity remains unknown, and she has made a conscious effort to keep her daughter’s life private. She continues to focus on her career and being a mother, while also being a role model and inspiration to many young women in Nigeria and beyond.
Does Genevieve’s Daughter Also Have a Child?
Yes, she is the proud mother of a baby boy, unlike her mum, Theodora Chimebuka got married in 2016 to her heartthrob and they both welcomed a baby boy making Genevieve a beautiful grand mum.
Genevieve Nnaji’s Affairs
Genevieve Nnaji is known to be a very private person when it comes to her personal life, and this also includes her romantic relationships. She has never confirmed any of the rumors or speculations about her affairs, and she has always maintained a low profile in that regard.
In the past, there have been rumors about Genevieve being in relationships with prominent figures in the entertainment industry, including musicians and actors. She has been rumored to be in a relationship with the likes of former vice president Atiku Abubakar, D’banj, Ugochukwu Ufuaze, etc.
One of these rumored romances had landed Desmond Ike Chima of myemag.net in jail after he linked Genevieve to extramarital affairs. However, none of these rumors have been confirmed by Genevieve herself, and she has always kept her personal life away from the public eye.
Genevieve Nnaji Awards
By winning the best actress in 2005 at an African movie academy awards held in Bayelsa, Nigeria as her leading role she succeeded in solidifying her superstar status. She is the first ever actress to win the honor.
She has received several awards and nominations for her exceptional performances in movies, as well as for her contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry. Some of her notable awards include:
- Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role (2005)
- City People Entertainment Award for Best Actress of the Year (2001, 2005, 2010, 2011)
- African Magic Viewers Choice Award for Best Movie Director (2015)
- Africa Magic Viewers Choice Trailblazer Award (2019)
- Nollywood Personality of the Year Award at the ThisDay Awards (2012)
In addition to these awards, Genevieve has also received recognition for her contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry. She was honored with a national award, Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR), by the Nigerian government in 2011.
Genevieve Nnaji Achievements
Genevieve Nnaji has achieved numerous milestones in her career as an actress, producer, and director. In the year 2009, Genevieve was included in “Meet the most famous people in the world” an Oprah Winfrey show.
Here are some of her notable achievements:
- Successful Acting Career: Genevieve has been in the entertainment industry for over two decades and has appeared in numerous movies, both in Nigeria and internationally. She has won several awards and nominations for her exceptional performances, and she is considered one of the most successful actresses in Nigeria.
- First Nigerian movie on Netflix: In 2018, Genevieve made history by directing and starring in the first Nigerian movie, “Lionheart,” to be acquired by Netflix. The movie premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and received critical acclaim.
- Founder of The Entertainment Network (T.E.N): Genevieve is the founder of The Entertainment Network (T.E.N), a platform that supports and promotes emerging talent in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
- Philanthropic work: Genevieve is known for her philanthropic work and has supported numerous causes, including education, women’s rights, and the fight against HIV/AIDS. In 2018, she was appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and has continued to use her platform to advocate for sustainable development in Africa.
- Fashion Icon: Genevieve is also known for her sense of style and has been recognized as a fashion icon in Nigeria. She has appeared on the cover of several fashion magazines and has collaborated with several fashion brands.
Genevieve was also awarded the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for her contributions to Nollywood in 2011. Her hometown was not spared as they bestowed on her “Eze Adaemoji of Amuzu Nweafor” a chieftaincy title in Imo State. Genevieve is also the first Nigerian actress to be verified on Twitter.
Nollywood’s finest kisser
In an interview with Ghanaian actor Majid Michel, he praised Genevieve Nnaji as the best kisser in the Nollywood film industry. According to Majid Michel, he had the opportunity to work with Genevieve on a movie set, and he was impressed by her skills as an actress and kisser.
The kiss however occurred in “Bursting Out “ a 2010 film. Both performers earned the Nollywood Award for Best Kiss in 2011.
Are Genevieve Nnaji and Omotola-Jalade-Ekeinde Enemies?
In the past, there have been rumors that Genevieve Nnaji and Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, two of the biggest actresses in Nollywood, were not on good terms. However, there has been no concrete evidence to support these rumors, and both actresses have denied any feud or animosity between them when asked.
In fact, in a 2018 interview with Guardian Life, Genevieve Nnaji praised Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, calling her a “talented actress” and “a force to be reckoned with.” Omotola has also spoken positively about Genevieve in past interviews, acknowledging her as a pioneer in the Nollywood industry.
While there may have been some competition or rivalry between the two actresses in the past, it seems that they have since put any differences aside and continue to support and respect each other’s work.
Genevieve Nnaji Movies
Genevieve Nnaji is a prolific actress and has appeared in numerous movies throughout her career in Nollywood. Since her debut in 1999, Genevieve has featured in almost 500 films.
Here are some of her most popular movies:
- Lionheart (2018)
- Ije (2010)
- Half of a Yellow Sun (2013)
- Road to Yesterday (2015)
- Tango with Me (2010)
- Keeping Faith: Is That Love? (2002)
- Mirror Boy (2011)
- Bursting Out (2010)
- 30 Days (2006)
- The Visit (2015)
- Blood Sisters (2003)
- Sharon Stone (2002)
- Games Women Play (2005)
- Silent Scandals (2009)
- Power of Love (2010)
Genevieve Nnaji Controversies
Genevieve Nnaji is a famous actress who has faced some controversies throughout her career. Here are some of the controversies she has been involved in.:
- In 2004, Genevieve was banned from working in Nollywood along with other actors due to alleged unprofessional conduct. However, the ban was lifted a year later.
- In 2016, rumors spread that Genevieve had secretly gotten married in Portugal. However, she denied the rumors and said that she was not married.
- In 2017, Genevieve was reportedly issued a court order for tax evasion. But she later settled the issue with the agency.
- In 2018, there was controversy surrounding the selection of Genevieve’s movie Lionheart as Nigeria’s submission for the Best International Feature Film category of the Academy Awards. The movie was initially disqualified because it was mostly in English, but this decision was later reversed.
- In 2020, Genevieve received criticism for her tweet about the End SARS protests in Nigeria, which some saw as divisive. However, she later apologized for her tweet and expressed her support for the movement.
It’s important to remember that some of these controversies are based on rumors or misunderstandings. Genevieve has been able to clear the air in some cases. Despite these controversies, she is still a beloved and respected figure in the Nollywood industry.
Netflix Lion Heart
“Lionheart” is a Nigerian movie that was directed by Genevieve Nnaji and released on Netflix in 2018. The movie tells the story of a woman named Adaeze (played by Nnaji), who is trying to save her father’s struggling transportation company after he falls ill.
The movie received critical acclaim and was praised for its portrayal of Nigerian culture and the strength of its female characters. It was also the first Nigerian movie to be acquired by Netflix and made available to a global audience.
It became Netflix’s first original from Nigeria, it was released for a reported $ 3.8 million. It was dismissed by the Oscar due to linguistic irregularities after being first approved, their decision was widely criticized.
Here is a preview of the movie
Genevieve and Feminism
Genevieve Nnaji has been a vocal advocate for feminism and women’s rights throughout her career. She has used her platform to speak out against gender discrimination, domestic violence, girl-child marriage, and other issues affecting women in Nigeria and beyond.