Nollywood actor Emeka Okoye has opened up about facing rejection in the film industry due to his body size, revealing that his physical appearance has cost him several acting opportunities over the years.

Speaking in an interview with Saturday Sun, Okoye, who began his acting career in 1999, said movie producers have often overlooked him for roles because of his chubby physique. Ironically, he noted that when he was slimmer, some filmmakers also turned him down, saying he was “too small” for their preferred characters.

Despite these setbacks, the To Kill A Monkey star said he remains grateful and content with his journey in Nollywood, attributing his progress to faith, hard work, and divine guidance.

Recalling his early days, Okoye shared that he started with the movie Prophet of Darkness in Asaba, where he encountered several challenges but never gave up.

He also explained that his acting choices are guided by a personal covenant with God, which is why he avoids explicit scenes or roles that conflict with his faith.

“Yes, I have lost movie roles several times because of my looks. Ironically, when I was slimmer, I also lost roles because I was considered too small. But I’m content and grateful for every opportunity. It has always been God’s guidance,” he said.

Okoye added that he only performs “safe kissing” scenes and avoids deep or tongue-to-tongue contact in films, citing examples from his role in Ms. Counselor.

The Papa Pepe actor also reflected on surviving a major health scare earlier in the year, describing 2025 as one of his most fulfilling years.

“During my early days, I experienced the good, the bad, and the ugly, but I never allowed the challenges to deter me. I stayed true to my calling. Weeks later, I got a call that Madam Kemi had picked me for a role in a Netflix Original. I screamed, knelt down, and burst into praise,” he recalled.