Tall, well-built and handsome, Benson Okonkwo a.k.a ‘Mr Packaging’ is riding the crest of success in Nollywood amidst rumours that he is gay. In this engaging interview with Showtime Celebrity, the soft-spoken actor speaks out on his gay story, journey to prominence and much-touted romance with actress, Nkiru Sylvanus…Enjoy!!!
As a ladies’ man, have you ever been threatened for any reason?
Yes. Some weeks ago, an unknown lady walked up to my security guard and left a note with him. She warned me to step down for her boyfriend who was a strong contender in the just-concluded City People’s Face of Nollywood award. She didn’t stop there, as she kept calling me and warning that if I didn’t step down, she would deal with me.
Why do you like to be called a ladies’ man?
Why not? I’ve got all it takes to be a ladies’ man. I am hot, I am a head-turner anywhere I go. But it is not all ladies that say “hello” to you that you respond to. This is because I have a girlfriend I am seriously in love with. I believe one is enough.
What’s your reaction to the issue of sexual harassment in Nollywood, considering that you were once accused of being gay?
Sexual harassment is everywhere, even in the banking sector. Thank God I have not been sexually harassed before now. It is not about how many producers or directors you sleep with. What matters is if you are talented. You can sleep with everybody without being able to deliver. But if you are good and God is by your side, you can go places. Actually, a colleague of mine was the brain behind the gay rumour. They feel threatened because of my good looks.
