Actress, Beverly Afaglo is sassy, unassuming and unpredictable well driven in whatever she does. Beverly recently won the Terracotta Award for best actress for her role in the television comedy series, “About to Wed’. Although now a consummate actress, she started off as a presenter and her first acting gig was for pittance. She revealed to Maxwell Cleff Justice that she was paid 100 cedis for her first movie among other things in the following interview.
How did you start acting?
Acting is something I had always wanted to do but was only waiting for the right time so when it came my way I grabbed it without any hesitation. But then it was not that easy getting into the acting field so I decided to start as a presenter.
When did you then have your first shot in the acting industry?
Well as a I said it wasn’t easy but through my work as a presenter, I was able to meet a lot of people in the industry who one way or the other saw that I had talent so decided to give me the chance. Prior to that I had gone for a lot of auditions here and there but it all turned out not to be what I wanted.
And what did you want?
Well, they only call and say they have a bit role; crowd scene, party and club scenes and stuffs like that but knowing what I was capable of doing, I wasn’t in a rush so I humbly turned them down anytime they called me for such roles. That was in 2005 I think.
So how did you finally land the kind of role you wanted?
Through meeting notable people in the industry I had the opportunity to meet a very prominent man in the industry called Roger Quartey and he introduced me to a couple of producers and that ended me a role in a movie. That was in 2007.
Did you have to make any special sacrifice?
The sacrifice was to show how best I can act, that’s was all…!
What was the movie and how much were you paid?
My first major movie was the ‘Return of Beyonce’ and I was paid I think 100 Ghana Cedis but really it wasn’t about the money but it was something I always wanted to do. So I was ok
How easy was it for you to get into the industry?
I would say it was easy getting to know the producers but it was a different thing you getting a role depending on how best you can act. I have always dreamt of that but was not in a rush to become one. I waited for my time and I guess this is how far I have gotten now.
How was the feeling of winning the Terracotta Award like?
Ecstatic, Great, I wish I could express how I felt better. I couldn’t help but saw tears flowing down my cheeks. Oh my God! I am beginning to get emotional here. I was very happy to hear my name being mentioned as the winner, seriously.
Can we talk about the money involved?
Hmm! I wish but let’s not go there now. I won an award and I am grateful.
What movie has been your best movie so far?
‘Prince’s Bride’ by Venus Films which a played a role in. I don’t say so because I had a role in it. I just feel it was a good movie, a good story line, cast was on point and the directing was good as well. I know it’s a very good movie trust me
How do you describe a good movie?
I believe a good movie should ensure that actors are on point, delivery of dialogues, good directing and of course a better storyline
Have you rejected a script from a producer and what was your basis if any?
Yes I do several times. I just rejected one recently because I felt it wasn’t good a script enough. It was just ordinary. I think a good script should have a better storyline, good dialogues, plotting and screenplay should be good.
What do you think of actresses who are exploited before they land movie roles?
You see there are a lot of youngsters who want to desperately become stars but I think they need to be focused and go to school, earn themselves some degrees and wait for their time. A lot of actresses have been used by producers or directors to get their way into the industry but I think as a person you should consider whether it’s worth it or not even before getting yourself into it. People are really going through a lot you know.
Have you been a victim or do you by chance no of any person?
No I haven’t and I don’t think I am going to be in one. I don’t really know of any though
What do you make of the Nigeria-Ghana collaborations?
It is fantastic and a very good thing to do. It’s making the business grow. It also strengthens the binding ties and unity between us almost everyday.
Do you have a favourite actor that you worked with?
I would say I don’t have a favorite but I flow with John Dumelo very well. Guess there is some chemistry there but I would love to work with Olu Jacobs
What has been your most embarrassing moment?
Not one I can remember now
What has been your happiest moment?
Wow! That was when I was called to receive my award, I think so far it has been my happiest moment. I mean starting up a career and winning an award in a few years in a series tells you the great things that are yet to come in your life. It was one humbling experience.
What else do you do apart from acting?
I run a Saloon
Are you married?
No but seriously attached
What would you say to your fans?
To my fans I love you and keeping loving me back and thanks for supporting Beverly Afaglo
