Jumoke George: Biography
Olajumoke Amoke Olatunde George, popularly recognized as Jumoke George, is a Nigerian actress, filmmaker, and producer. She has made her mark in Nollywood, featuring in movies produced in both Yoruba and English languages. Beyond acting, Jumoke has also worked as a television host on various programs across Nigeria.
Early Life and Education
Jumoke George was born on February 18 in Ibadan, the capital city of Oyo State, Nigeria. She comes from a military background—her father served in the Nigerian Army, while her stepmother, a nurse, also worked with the military.
Her childhood was marked by family challenges. Her parents separated when she was still very young, and she continued living with her father and stepmother. However, tensions within the household led to conflict, and during her time in secondary school, she was forced to leave home. With nowhere else to turn, she found refuge with friends who offered her shelter during those difficult years.
Despite the hardships, Jumoke remained committed to her education. She began her academic journey at Command Children School in Ann’s Barracks, Yaba, Lagos. She later attended Army Children School in Kano before continuing at Anglican Grammar School, Orita Mefa, in her hometown of Ibadan. Determined to build a future for herself, she later enrolled at Government Technical College in Osogbo, where she studied Business Administration.
Career
Jumoke George’s journey into the world of acting began at the young age of eight, thanks to a family friend who introduced her to the craft. She got her start performing in stage dramas with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in Ibadan. Her passion for acting grew stronger as she joined a drama troupe affiliated with NTA Ibadan, where she gained valuable experience in live theatrical productions.
Her big break into the Yoruba film industry came through the mentorship and support of Victor Ashaolu, who played a key role in guiding her early steps in Nollywood. Despite her enthusiasm and talent, Jumoke initially faced challenges that made it difficult for her to progress in the movie industry.
Determined not to give up, she shifted focus and joined the Freelance and Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria (FIBAN). There, she found new opportunities in media, hosting five live programs that kept her consistently engaged and away from the film scene for a period. Her versatility and charisma as a presenter showcased her wide-ranging talent beyond acting.
Filmography
Over the years, Jumoke George has built a diverse portfolio in both Yoruba and English-language Nollywood productions. Her ability to embody a wide range of characters has earned her recognition and admiration. Below are some of the notable films she has appeared in:
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Eekan Soso (2009)
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The Wedding Party (2016) – portrayed Iya Michaels
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My Wife & I (2017) – played Aunty Ayo
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The Wedding Party 2 (2017) – reprised her role as Iya Michaels
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The Ghost and the Tout (2018)
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King of Boys (2018) – appeared as Party Gossip 1
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Mokalik (2019) – featured as Iya Simi
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Saheed Esu (2020) – played Iya Jamiu
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Love Castle (2021) – took on the role of Iyaloja
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What Happened at St James (2021)
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Maleeka (2022) – portrayed Mama Yeni
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The Carpenter (2022) – played the role of a Mother
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The Other Side of Love (2023) – featured as Mama Mimiola
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JAPA (2024) – acted as Mrs. Ajayi
Award
In recognition of her long-standing contribution to the Nigerian film industry, Jumoke George received the City People Movie Matriarch Recognition Award in 2018.
Hope You Know,
Jumoke George was born in Nigeria and raised in a culturally diverse environment that greatly influenced her passion for the arts. Growing up, she developed a deep interest in storytelling and performance, often participating in school plays and community events.
She completed her early education in Nigeria, where she showed exceptional talent in drama and public speaking. Her exposure to both Yoruba and English languages at an early age helped shape her versatility as an actress in Nollywood. Driven by a desire to refine her craft, Jumoke pursued further training in the performing arts, which laid a strong foundation for her future in acting and filmmaking.
Recent Trending Issue
Veteran Nollywood actress Jumoke George has recently drawn public attention after an emotional interview where she opened up about her ongoing personal battles. Speaking on the “Talk to B” show hosted by Biola Bayo, the seasoned actress revealed that she has been homeless for over five years, currently taking shelter in a church. She also shared that she is dealing with serious health issues and is in urgent need of ₦400,000 to undergo medical tests on her brain and heart. Another heartbreaking revelation was that her first son, Adeola, has been missing since 2021, and her efforts to locate him have so far been unsuccessful.
Jumoke’s current situation is the latest chapter in a life filled with challenges. She previously disclosed that she was unofficially blacklisted from Nollywood for 14 years. According to her, this was due to her refusal to participate in the “sex-for-roles” culture and her decision to embrace her natural dark skin despite pressure to bleach. These stances, while principled, led to a prolonged absence from the movie industry.
Her childhood and family life were also far from easy. She recalled being cast aside by her father after she exposed her stepmother’s alleged use of fetish practices against him. She also recounted enduring physical abuse in her marriage, including being beaten while pregnant.
Beyond her personal story, George has also used her voice to caution women against undergoing Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) surgeries. She has publicly spoken out against the dangerous trend, stressing the risks involved and encouraging women to value their natural bodies.
The honesty with which Jumoke George has shared her experiences has sparked widespread empathy and discussion. Her story is shedding light on the emotional, physical, and professional hardships faced by many in the entertainment industry—while also highlighting the importance of support, both from the public and within the industry itself.
Reason for Trending
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Homelessness & Health Struggles – During a May 14 interview on Biola Bayo’s “Talk to B” show, George shared that she has been living on the floor of a church in Lagos for nearly six years. She revealed that she urgently needs ₦400,000 to undergo medical tests on her brain and heart.
Source: PM News Nigeria -
Missing Son – In the same interview, George tearfully explained that her eldest child, Adeola, has been missing for four years. Despite her efforts to locate him, there has been no trace of him, which has added to her personal grief.
Source: PM News Nigeria -
14-Year Career Hiatus – News outlets have revisited George’s revelation from October 2024, where she shared that she had been effectively blacklisted from Nollywood for 14 years. She attributed this to her refusal to engage in the “sex-for-roles” culture and her decision to keep her dark skin instead of bleaching.
Source: Daily Post Nigeria -
Warning Against Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) Surgeries – Following a tragic incident in Lagos involving a botched BBL surgery, George posted a viral video in September 2024, urging women to reconsider the pursuit of “ideal” body standards. She highlighted the grave risks and called it a disservice to women’s natural beauty.
Source: The Nation Newspaper -
Childhood Rejection & Domestic Abuse – A feature in December 2024 revisited George’s painful childhood memories, including being disowned by her father after revealing her stepmother’s alleged use of charms. She also shared the traumatic experience of enduring abuse in a previous marriage.
Source: ABATI MEDIA