Veteran Nigerian actress Stella Damasus has reignited a conversation about Nollywood’s golden era after recalling that she, Genevieve Nnaji and Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde were once referred to as the industry’s “Big Three.” In a recent interview with Pulse TV, Damasus said the trio stood out because they were authentic and were not trying to imitate one another or manufacture fame.
The comment has now turned into the kind of Nollywood debate that refuses to stay retired. While Damasus described the three actresses as young, talented women determined to succeed, reactions online have questioned whether the informal title was ever universally accepted, with some commenters mentioning other prominent actresses from the same era. �
The “Big 3” Walk Back Into the Spotlight
According to Damasus, the three actresses built their careers at a time when social media was not available to measure every achievement, trend every appearance or instantly announce who was “the biggest.” She said their work was driven by authenticity and determination rather than an attempt to become someone else.
She also recalled the intense comparisons among fans, explaining that supporters often preferred one actress over another. That competition created pressure for the three women to keep proving themselves because, in her words, nobody wanted to be regarded as the weakest.
Fans Reopen the Nollywood Scoreboard
The moment Damasus‘ “Big Three” description resurfaced, social media effectively opened an old Nollywood courtroom. Some commenters agreed that Damasus, Genevieve and Omotola were major stars of their era, while others argued that actresses such as Rita Dominic and Oge Okoye deserved consideration in any discussion of the period’s leading women.
The disagreement highlights an important point: the “Big 3” label is being presented as a recollection of how Damasus says the actresses were regarded, rather than a formal industry award or officially established ranking. And with fans now debating the history from different perspectives, the nostalgic conversation has suddenly acquired the energy of a brand-new Nollywood casting battle.
Stella Damasus’ comments have therefore revived more than memories of old movies; they have reopened a conversation about authenticity, competition and the female stars who helped define an important era of Nigerian cinema. Whether readers agree with her recollection or have their own version of Nollywood’s old hierarchy, OGM News NG will keep watching as the “Big 3” debate continues to generate reactions.
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