Biodun Stephen Says Protecting Actors’ Marriages Is Not a Producer’s Responsibility

Nigerian filmmaker Biodun Stephen has addressed ongoing criticism surrounding romantic scenes in Nollywood, insisting that producers should not be held responsible for the state of actors’ marriages.

The award-winning producer made the remarks in a video shared on Instagram while reacting to comments suggesting that kissing scenes in films contribute to marital problems among actors.

Stephen argued that actors willingly choose the profession and understand the demands that come with it. She added that their spouses are equally aware of the realities of the industry, making it their shared responsibility to manage their relationships.

According to her, filmmakers should focus on delivering authentic performances and protecting actors professionally on set, rather than being blamed for personal issues outside production.

She explained that while kissing scenes are not a major part of her filmmaking style because she prefers movies that families can watch together, she would still include such scenes whenever they are essential to the story.

Stephen stressed that believable romance often requires convincing chemistry between actors, although she acknowledged that strong love stories can also be told without intense physical intimacy.

She also pointed out that actors always have the freedom to reject roles that conflict with their personal values or beliefs.

“One of the things we’re selling actors on screen is believability. You’re selling an emotion, you’re selling chemistry, and you want people to believe the love story so they can connect with it.”

The filmmaker maintained that no producer forces actors to accept romantic scenes, noting that some performers openly decline kissing roles while others have no objections.

She said her responsibility as a producer and director is to ensure actors are treated professionally, respected during production, and presented well on screen, not to safeguard their marriages.

“My job as a producer or director is to protect you as an actor and present you properly to the audience without compromising your person. My job is not to save your marriage because that responsibility does not belong to me.”

Stephen concluded by saying that personal relationships remain the responsibility of the individuals involved, adding that no actor is compelled to work on any project against their wishes.