Nollywood filmmaker, Biodun Stephen has responded to growing concerns about intimacy scenes in Nigerian films, stating clearly that she does not compel her actors to kiss or engage in romantic scenes they are uncomfortable with on set.

The director, known for a string of successful Nollywood productions centred on love, family and relationships, addressed the subject following renewed public conversation around how intimate scenes are handled in the industry.

Stephen explained that consent and comfort remain central to how she works with her cast whenever a script calls for romantic or intimate moments, noting that no actor is pressured into performing scenes that go beyond what they are willing to do.

Her comments come at a time when discussions around on set intimacy, boundaries and the wellbeing of actors have become increasingly prominent within Nollywood, with several industry figures calling for clearer standards and more sensitivity in how such scenes are directed and executed.

As one of the more prolific directors in the Nigerian film industry, having helmed numerous romantic dramas over the years, Stephen’s remarks carry weight in an industry where questions about professionalism and actor welfare on set continue to draw public attention. Her statement is expected to add to the broader conversation around how Nollywood productions can better safeguard the comfort and dignity of actors while still delivering the emotional depth that romantic storylines require.

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