Ufuoma Stacey McDermott (née Ejenobor) is a Nigerian actress, filmmaker, director, producer, former model, beauty queen, television presenter, and entrepreneur.

She is widely respected in Nollywood for her professionalism, versatility, and long-standing contribution to film, theatre, and creative production in Nigeria and abroad.

Born on 23 April 1981, she has built a multi-layered career spanning acting, directing, public speaking, wellness, and business.

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Early Life and Background

Ufuoma Stacey McDermott was born in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, into a family of Urhobo descent from Delta State (Ewu Clan, Ughelli South).

She grew up across different Nigerian cities including:

• Benin City
• Jos
• Lagos

This exposure shaped her cultural flexibility and confidence in storytelling.

Her father nicknamed her “Isio”, meaning “star” in Urhobo language, symbolizing brightness and uniqueness.

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Education

Ufuoma McDermott has a strong academic and professional background.

Education Summary Table

Level	Institution	Qualification
Undergraduate	University of Lagos	B.A. French Language
Postgraduate	University of Lagos	M.A. Public & International Affairs
Film Training	New York Film Academy	Acting & Filmmaking
Professional Certification	London Business School	Human Resources & Development

Her education reflects a blend of arts, communication, leadership, and business strategy.

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Family and Personal Life

Steven McDermott is married to Ufuoma McDermott.

They got married on 23 April 2010, the same day as her birthday.

Key Family Details

• Husband: Steven McDermott
• Marriage Year: 2010
• Marriage Duration (2026): ~16 years
• Children: 2 (son and daughter, Kesiena mentioned)

She is known for promoting:

• Strong family values
• Cultural identity
• Balanced interracial marriage
• Parenting discipline and emotional stability

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Career Journey

1. Modeling & Pageantry Beginnings

Ufuoma began her entertainment journey in 2000 as a model.

Pageant Achievements

• Miss Ebony Nigeria Winner (2001)
• Miss Earth Nigeria Winner (2004)
• Represented Nigeria internationally
• Runner-up in several national pageants

These achievements introduced her into mainstream entertainment.

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2. Acting Career

Her acting debut came in 2004 with The President Must Not Die.

She has since appeared in 100+ Nollywood films and TV productions.

Notable Works

• My Mum and I (TV Series)
• The President Must Not Die
• Various Nollywood dramas and stage plays

She also gained recognition for stage performances in:

• Hear Word! (performed internationally)

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3. Directing & Film Production

Ufuoma transitioned into filmmaking and directing.

Directorial Works

• Christmas is Coming (2017)
• What Just Happened (2018)

This shift established her as a multi-skilled Nollywood filmmaker.

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4. TV & Entrepreneurship

She expanded into:

• TV hosting
• TEDx speaking
• Wellness entrepreneurship
• Brand influencing

She also launched:

• The USM Show (2019) featuring music, dance, and comedy

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Filmography Overview Table

Category	Details
Acting Career Start	2004
Total Productions	100+ films/TV roles
Popular Series	My Mum and I
Stage Work	Hear Word!
Director Debut	2017
Notable Films	Christmas is Coming, What Just Happened

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Health Journey

One of her most discussed personal journeys is her kidney disease battle, which became public in recent years.

She reportedly managed:

• Chronic kidney disease (Stage 3–4 reports circulated)
• Long-term medical treatment and monitoring

Her openness has made her:

• A health awareness advocate
• A symbol of resilience
• An inspiration for patients facing chronic illness

She continues to balance health, family, and career responsibilities.

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Social Media Influence

Ufuoma McDermott has a strong digital presence:

• Instagram: ~2M followers
• TikTok: Growing viral engagement
• Facebook & X: Active but smaller reach

Content Focus

• Family lifestyle
• Wellness & health awareness
• Film projects
• Inspirational content

Her son’s viral singing clips also boosted her online visibility.

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Net Worth (2026 Estimate)

Estimated Net Worth:

$1 million – $5 million USD

Income Sources

Source	Contribution
Acting	Nollywood films & TV
Directing/Producing	Film projects
Brand Endorsements	Influencer deals
Speaking Engagements	TEDx & events
Wellness Business	Coaching & lifestyle brand
Social Media	Sponsored content

She maintains a relatively private luxury lifestyle.

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Public Image & Influence

Ufuoma McDermott is respected for:

• Professional discipline
• Low controversy profile
• Strong family values
• Inspirational resilience

She is widely seen as a role model for:

• Women in entertainment
• Working mothers
• Creative entrepreneurs

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Conclusion

Ufuoma Stacey McDermott remains one of Nollywood’s most respected and versatile personalities.

Her journey from modeling to acting, directing, entrepreneurship, and health advocacy reflects growth, resilience, and reinvention.