Having acted in several movies and produced a few including Jamal and Alabi Opomulero, Jamiu Azeez, is one of the fast rising male figures in the Yoruba movie sector. The artiste popularly known as Onire spoke to Bisola Bello about his life as an actor and how he intends to learn more about the art.
How did your training at Jide Kosoko Theatre Group impact your career?
Positively; you cannot even begin to imagine. That was actually my foundation in acting. I learnt the arts of the craft at Jide Kosoko Theatre Group. And thankfully, I am enjoying the knowledge I acquired from there.
You always act as a gentle character in movies, are you like that in real life?
Acting is about make believe. That is not to say, I am a stubborn person. But I act according to the script I get. When I get a script I do what is required of me. I cannot do beyond the script. It just so happens that I act gentle. More so, I know of a few movies I was really stubborn.
You acted as an old man in your new film Kuye, what prompted that decision?
I do not believe that as an actor you should be limited to any kind of role. I wanted to do something different, to challenge myself, which is why I acted as an old man. I actually also acted as a young man in the movie. Believe me, it is a story worth seeing because it is Jamiu Azeez in another dimension entirely. I wanted to push the boundaries, and I did.
Why did you decide to pursue a career in acting?
It is not like I planned it or anything. But I just loved the art and I wanted to do it. Thankfully, it worked out and is still working out.
Are you in a relationship?
Yes, I am in a relationship.
Is it serious?
Yes, it is very serious. She is someone I see spending the rest of my life with. I might even invite you to our wedding very soon.
How does she feel about female fans around you?
The funny thing is she actually enjoys it. We talk about it all the time and gist about various female fans. She never gets jealous unnecessarily. She understands what I do and know how important it is to me. She knows I have to have female fans. It is part of the job. And I as the man also respect her and never try to take advantage of that.
Tell us something we do not know about Jamiu Azeez
Well, I am actually an open book. I am currently enrolled at the Lagos State University studying marketing.
Why did you choose to study marketing instead of theatre arts?
I spent nine solid years at JKT and all I learnt there was about theatre, both theory and practical so I felt I should study something else. However, I still have the intention of going to an international film school to broaden my scope in acting.
You have established more than once that actress, Opeyemi Aiyeola, is a sister to you. How do you feel about acting romantic roles with her?
We are both professionals to the core. So I do not think that is a problem. Like I said, acting is make believe. Whatever roles we are required to act, it is our duty to deliver it flawlessly for our fans. Opeyemi Aiyeola has been in the industry for long, and she knows how to get through to her fans. So do I. it is just acting.
You wrote Adebimpe Akintude’s movie, Yesterday. What was the inspiration behind that?
Please do not mind Bimpe. She is being modest. I actually had the story in my head and I pitched the idea to her. We both added our input. I will not say it is one man’s idea.
Which director so you enjoy working with most?
I respect every good and creative director because they would always drill out the best in the actor/actress. No matter what character you are playing, I think every director try their best to ensure delivery.
Do you think you might make a directorial debut soon?
I do not think so.
What can fans expect from Jamiu Azeez?
Great movies. Movies that people can relate to. I also have a new one coming out in 2016 titled Race. It is going to be really good and I think my fans will really enjoy it.
