culled from Y! Magazine Issue 4

SINGER AND ACTRESS, Tomi Odunsi is clearly a star on the rise

How long have you been in television?

I’m yet to complete my first year as a television actor: my first and only professional television role has been playing the character “Salewa” on Mnet’s television soap, Tinsel, which I joined in November 2010.

Why television?

I’ve always wanted to be an actor as well as singer, and television is one of the best media for actors. It is different from theatre, which I am more familiar with, having acted in productions such as Fractures and Oluronbi: The Musical, in the last two years.

Who are those in the industry that you look up to?

Ireti Doyle, Ben Murray Bruce, Awoba Bob-Manuel, Mo Abudu and Genevieve Nnaji. They all inspire me for being trailblazers.

What is your latest project?

As an actor, my sole project at the moment is developing and expanding my character, “Salewa” on Tinsel. 

What are the unique challenges of being on TV in Nigeria?

The industry has grown rapidly, but we still have a long way to go technically. I think investment is a major challenge.

What are your favourite shows?

Number one has to be Tinsel: I love the show and all its characters. They are so fun and entertaining. I still can’t believe that I am on it. I also love Moments With Mo for the human interest stories. I am also a big fan of Studio 53 Extra, the Ellen DeGeneres Show, and, of course, Desperate Housewives.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I want to be a success at two things – acting and singing. I want to receive recognition at what I do and I want to make money from both of them. Y!