RMD Slams ‘Legend’ Label as Scam to Force Early Exit

RMD Rejects ‘Legend’ Tag, Says It’s a Scam Meant to Retire Him Prematurely

Renowned Nigerian actor Richard Mofe-Damijo, better known by his stage as RMD, has spoken out about his dislike of being referred to as a “legend” in the country’s entertainment sector. The 63-year-old actor, who was born in Delta State, recently spoke on the Curiosity Made Me Ask podcast and openly called the term “legend” a hoax, saying it is frequently used to push people to the sidelines of their careers too soon.

RMD stated that while he respects and acknowledges true legends in Nollywood, including the likes of Pete Edochie and Olu Jacobs, he does not see himself as one. “I think the legend of a thing is a scam,” he remarked. “I have my legends — Uncle Pete and Uncle Olu Jacobs. These are the people who inspired me, and I have watched them for years. But when people call me a legend, it feels like they’re trying to place me in the neighborhood of retirees or those nearing retirement, and I don’t appreciate that.”

The seasoned actor didn’t start out in front of the camera; he started his career in 1982. Prior to being well-known in Nollywood, RMD was a journalist who contributed to prominent Nigerian magazines like Metro Magazine, The Guardian, and Concord Newspapers. His lifestyle and entertainment-focused reporting allowed him to establish powerful connections within the media industry and provided him with insightful knowledge of it. RMD’s love for acting was evident despite his success as a journalist. His performance in Ripples, one of Nigeria’s most popular TV soap operas in the 1980s, made him a household celebrity. The Nigerian film industry flourished in the 1990s, and RMD became one of its most well-known figures very fast.

RMD, who gained popularity for his powerful on-screen persona, emotional depth, and rich baritone, became a mainstay in romance dramas and family-friendly stories. He frequently played strong businessmen, fathers, and love interests, enthralling viewers with his innate charm and elegant playing technique. RMD has consistently been present in Nollywood over the years, winning the respect of both industry insiders and fans.. But in his view, the term “legend” carries a sense of finality he’s not ready to embrace. “It feels like a subtle way of saying my time is up, and I don’t believe that’s the case,” he said.

RMD continues to act, inspire, and evolve a testament to his staying power in one of Africa’s most dynamic entertainment industries.

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