Nigerian content creator and actor Enioluwa Adeoluwa has ignited social media discussions after calling out the frequent comparisons between Nollywood star Funke Akindele and Hollywood actress Taraji P. Henson.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Enioluwa voiced his frustration over the trend of likening African stars to their Western counterparts.
“I really don’t like seeing comments calling Aunty Funke the ‘Nigerian version of Taraji P. Henson.’ As much as I love Taraji and admire her work, I don’t understand the constant need to compare our icons to Western figures. Funke Akindele is The Funke Akindele—an unstoppable box office record breaker. She’s not a version of anyone but herself,” he wrote.
His post quickly gained traction, sparking conversations about how African talents are often measured against Western stars rather than being celebrated for their unique achievements.
While some social media users pointed out that the comparisons stem from their physical resemblance and similar screen presence, Enioluwa argued that there’s a deeper issue at play.
“Fair, but there’s a deeper layer to it—where we often view our own as lesser, especially in the entertainment space. No one ever calls Taraji the American version of Funke Akindele,” he responded.
The debate continues, with many agreeing that African entertainers deserve to be appreciated on their own terms without unnecessary comparisons.
