Murphy Afolabi on set Murphy Alabi needs no introduction in the Yoruba genre of the Nigerian movie industry. Apart from being one of the famous faces in Yoruba home videos, Murphy Afolabi has earned himself a permanent place among the best directors of traditional movies.
Murphy’s flair for thrillers and deep cultural movies best explains why tongues are wagging that there is something mysterious about the faircomplexion producer, scriptwriter and actor. The producer, however, says his upbringing and background as the son of a Babalawo (Native Doctor) have nothing to do with what he does. “It has got nothing to do with who your father is. Rather, it is about how gifted you are. I am not the only Babalawo’s child in this industry. I just have a strong passion for what I do.
“I believe the only way I can make a difference is by developing my Godgiven talent through the production of deep and powerful films that will portray the rich Yoruba culture. “We have our specialties in the industry. While some are specialists in writing and producing love and crime stories, my area of specialty is what I am doing and my people really know and love me for this. “The fact that my father is a native doctor has been of great help to some extent, as he sometimes assists me in some of my research. He has also helped my understanding of the Yoruba language. I know the real panegyrics of many of our gods that many are often amazed when they listen to me recite them,” he said. The son of the Araba of Oshogbo’s passion for acting started during his secondary school days.
The late Duro Ladipo and Yemi Eleburuibon were the legends that influenced Murphy’s love for the world of make- believe. After few appearances in the episodes of Ifa Olokun, the old TV drama on NTA, his active life as an actor began when he came to Lagos in the early 90s. While serving under the tutelage of a popular actor, Fasasi Olabanke a.k.a Dagunro, Eti Kunkun and Oba Mewa, were his first movies. But they never saw the light of the day. Interestingly, the third movie, titled Omi Oku was the film that actually launched him and his boss, Dagunro, to the limelight. In addition, they became more famous with Akaba Idena, Ijangbara Mekunu, Osa Eleye and many other flicks.
“I have written many movie scripts for a number of actors and actresses before I produced Igba Aye, my first movie as producer. Although it was not so popular, that didn’t discourage me. I later produced another one titled Balogun Kujenyo, a story about Osogbo, Ibadan and Ilesha. But the movie that actually shot me ito stardom as a notable producer was Omo Rapala,” he revealed. Among Murphy’s box office hits are One Time, Indomie Lomo, Adaniwaye, Lowokan, Ipadabo Ekun, Eye Awoko and many others.
