Director Pink, Explains Why She Transitioned From Acting To Directing

Nigerian music video director, Praise Onyeagwalam, also known as Director Pink, has shared the challenging experiences that prompted her to give up on her acting ambitions and instead pursue a career as a camerawork professional.

A renowned cinematographer shared in a recent interview with Hip TV that she stopped working in Nollywood after being subjected to humiliation, exploitation, and unwanted advances during auditions at the beginning of her career.

The humiliation was so severe that I had to abandon my aspirations to become an actress. I declined long lines, unsavory come-here phone calls. That’s when I decided to be my own employer.

Director Pink stated that the transition from acting to directing was initially driven by frustration, but ultimately turned out to be a fortunate circumstance. She found that filmmaking provided her with creative freedom and self-respect, which she had never experienced through acting.

She acknowledged that she could remain in the entertainment industry without having to sacrifice her principles. “Directing provided me with the freedom and respect that I never experienced at acting auditions.”

Currently, Director Pink is one of the most popular music video directors in Nigeria, renowned for her dynamic visuals and collaborations with prominent Afrobeats artists. She employed her narrative to motivate emerging artists, encouraging them to remain steadfast and concentrated in their artistic pursuits.

Success does not come immediately. Individuals currently at the pinnacle have overcome numerous years of rigorous effort and obstacles. True growth can only be achieved by embracing delayed gratification.

“I wanted to be an actress… but the humiliation was too much. Long queues, shady ‘come to this location’ calls. I said NO. That’s when I chose to be my own boss.”

— Director Pink pic.twitter.com/MQJX1Mi5tJ

— HipTv (@HipTv) October 8, 2025