“I Paid For That Choice” — Bimbo Thomas Explains Why She Walked Away From Thug Roles

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Nollywood actress Bimbo Thomas has revealed why she intentionally stopped taking street-tough and thug roles, despite earning widespread recognition for her performance in Funke Akindele’s hit movie Omo Ghetto.

In an interview with media personality Chude, monitored by Gossip News Now, Bimbo explained that her decision was deliberate, driven by a desire to avoid being pigeonholed into a single type of character.

According to the actress, she wanted both audiences and industry stakeholders to recognise her full range as a performer, rather than associating her solely with gritty street characters.

She noted that the Nigerian film industry often typecasts actors once they become known for a particular role. Determined not to be confined, Bimbo chose to step back from such parts—even though it came at a personal and professional cost.

At that point in her career, turning down roles meant fewer acting opportunities, a drop in income, and challenges in some personal relationships. Later, motherhood shifted her focus further, requiring her attention on raising her child, while endorsement deals helped provide financial support.

Bimbo first rose to prominence with her compelling performance in Omo Ghetto, one of Nollywood’s biggest hits, which later continued with the sequel Omo Ghetto: The Saga. Although these roles boosted her visibility, they also risked boxing her into a narrow acting category—a limitation she wanted to avoid to safeguard her career trajectory.

Reflecting on her experience, she said:

“Yes, I stopped taking those roles. As a thespian, I wanted to show my versatility and other sides of myself beyond what Funke Akindele helped project. In this part of the world, actors are easily stereotyped and typecast, and I knew I had more to offer than being stuck in one box.

“Looking back, the timing might not have been perfect because I wasn’t fully established yet. But I was also scared that if I became too popular with that image, it would be difficult to switch later. If I had started producing my own projects at that time, things might have turned out differently.

“That decision slowed my career. Then I had a baby and needed to focus on my child. Thankfully, endorsements came through; otherwise, it would have been very difficult. I truly paid a price for that choice — I lost roles, money, and even some friendships.”

Bimbo’s reflections highlight the challenges actors face in balancing typecasting pressures with personal growth and career longevity.