Baaj Adebule is a fast rising actor, writer, compere and model. He has a grass to grace story, having started out small and gone through several auditions before his big break. He has starred in some film projects like ‘Hush’, ‘The Governor’, ‘A Soldier’s Story’, to name a few. He’s enthusiasm and love for the arts is one of his most admirable traits. He speaks with CHIOMA BLESSING on how it all started
Who is Baaj Adebule?
I am an actor, filmmaker, model and host. I have starred in a couple of movies, series and short films and I also run a media production outfit called House of Baaj Pictures. I am pretty much a simple guy, I love my work and when I am not working, I love sports, adventure, travelling and most of all, I love watching movies, cartoons and TV series.
How did you get the role Adze in ‘HUSH’?
Oh yes, I auditioned. I auditioned a lot if there’s anything like that. I first did the general audition then I was invited to a call back. I eventually landed the role. At first I rejected the role because I was at the time interested in working on another project alongside a filmmaker I really admired. But I had to pick ‘HUSH’ eventually because of the effect it will have on my career at the time. It ended up being the best decision.
What were the challenges you faced at the beginning of your career?
The first challenge was acting itself. I started my career without first placing emphasis on actually acquiring the skills, knowledge and tools I need to be an ‘actor’. I entered the industry with just love and passion for the arts alone. But then I worked hard and still working very hard every day on acquiring as many skills and knowledge as I can. And then there was the lack of good acting opportunities but that’s expected as always. But persistence, patience, always showing up and doing my best and grace helped a lot and is still helping.
Did you face a notable challenge while growing up?
I did, just like everyone else. Apart from the usual travails of finding yourself, maturing and learning to grow, I am from a polygamous family so to speak. Also my parents later split up when I was a teenager which was pretty hard for me at the time, watching a family fall apart but we’ve all come a long way from there and moved on and up, together. Grown to be quiet headstrong and self-reliant in most aspects of my life.
Apart from acting, what else should we expect from you?
I am a filmmaker as well. I and my team have been working on our first feature film as well as TV series. We’re currently in the market for investors as well. We already filmed the pilot of the series some months ago and released a one-minute clip of it on Instagram and the reception was unprecedented. It went viral and had people asking for more and got alot of views, likes and positive feedback. But first we want to shoot the film. As for acting, I have a long list of projects already done to be released in cinema, on the 
web and on TV respectively. Also, I already signed on to some juicy projects as well. This year is going to be an amazing one for me.
What’s the biggest challenge about taking on a role?
Having the chance to play a role with all the factors that would help you give a great performance is almost impossible. The chances of getting a great script, with a great role, with a great cast, with a great director, crew, good working conditions and having ample time to prep is impossible. So the challenge always comes from having to compromise and/or go the extra mile to cover some shortcomings caused by sometimes yourself or your insecurities, the folks you are working with or especially Nigeria itself. But knowing that there are some things beyond your control and being okay with it deep within you helps a lot. It’s a big challenge being a Nigerian already, and then being a Nigerian actor or entertainer, that’s another one.
What is that one thing that stands you out from the crowd?
I can’t confidently put a finger on what that is to be honest. We’re all unique in our own little way thus we all stand out from one another one way or the other. But mine I think would be my approach to things; the way I see them and choose to deal with them. But will I say that’s a stand out factor, not sure.
What words of advice would you give to an up and coming actor?
First try to get a firm hold on why you want to be an actor. This will really help you when things aren’t going on well and you want to give up. Your reason doesn’t have to be the same as mine, what is important is that you have a good and strong reason, whatever it maybe. Then focus on improving yourself, maybe by attending a film school or self-educating. It is very important you stay humble and make friends and have colleagues in the industry so they can tell you when and where acting opportunities may be. As for the journey itself, it never gets easier, you’re just going to have to get stronger every day.
