Anikulapo filmmaker opens up on failed casting talks, alleged fallout, and lingering tension with Nollywood star Funke Akindele.

Nollywood filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has stirred conversation across the industry after revealing details of a strained relationship with actress and producer Funke Akindele, stemming from a failed casting negotiation for his hit film Anikulapo.

Speaking during a recent interview on Arise TV, Afolayan disclosed that he initially approached Akindele for the role of Queen Arolake in the now-successful movie. However, discussions reportedly broke down after the actress demanded a fee of ₦3.5 million per role—an amount Afolayan said he was unwilling to meet.

According to the filmmaker, he subsequently moved on to cast another actress for the role. But the situation appeared to escalate after Akindele allegedly learned that production had commenced without her involvement.

Afolayan claimed that communication between both parties ceased afterward, despite their occasional encounters at industry events. He further revealed that in an attempt to maintain professionalism, he later reached out to congratulate Akindele on the success of one of her recent projects.

However, the response he received, he said, was far from cordial.

“She told me not to ever talk to her or mention her name again,” Afolayan recounted during the interview.

The revelation has sparked mixed reactions within Nollywood circles, with many weighing in on the complexities of actor fees, professional expectations, and personal dynamics in the film industry.

Neither Funke Akindele nor her representatives have publicly responded to the claims as of the time of this report.

The blockbuster Anikulapo, released to critical acclaim, went on to become one of Afolayan’s most celebrated projects, further cementing his reputation as a leading storyteller in African cinema.