In one of the most unexpected and emotionally honest interviews we’ve ever had, Desmond Elliot shows up not as the actor, not as the politician — but as the man behind both.
From waka pass roles to winning political office, this conversation reveals the unfiltered journey of a man who’s been misunderstood, misquoted, and memed — but rarely heard.
From ₦500 Roles to Nollywood Star
Desmond Elliot didn’t always have the spotlight. He opens up about the humble, hard beginnings of his Nollywood career — starting out with a ₦500 paycheck and struggling through countless minor roles. “Those waka pass days humbled me,” he shares. “I was just happy to be on set.”
But it wasn’t just about talent. His story is one of grit, persistence, and hustle — qualities that eventually earned him a place among Nollywood’s leading men.
A Chance Meeting That Changed Everything
Desmond’s life took a dramatic turn when he was introduced to Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu by former governor Adams Oshiomhole. It was a moment that, by his own words, “changed everything.”
“For some reason, Asiwaju just liked me,” he says, still in awe of how one encounter can alter the course of your life.
This was the beginning of his shift from entertainment into public service — a move that brought its own set of challenges, scrutiny, and public opinion.
The 2023 Elections: Hurt, Not Hate
When Desmond Elliot was contested by younger actor and political hopeful Olumide Oworu during the 2023 elections, social media went wild. But in our conversation, Desmond makes it clear — there was no animosity.
“I wasn’t angry with him,” he says quietly. “I was hurt by the veterans who endorsed him.”
It’s a rare, vulnerable admission from a man often painted as a political villain online. Here, Desmond owns his pain, not just the public narrative.
Love, Loyalty, and His Wife’s Honest Take
The actor-turned-politician doesn’t hold back when speaking about his marriage. His wife, who supported him during his struggling years, had one strong opinion:
“She never liked my kissing scenes,” he says, half-laughing, half-serious.
He reflects on what it means to share your life with someone who has seen you at your lowest — and still chose to stay.
Addressing Rumors, Mistakes, and His Future
Yes, Desmond Elliot addresses the gay rumor — including the time someone asked him point-blank about his sexuality. He also doesn’t shy away from addressing the criticism around the Shitta bridge, or the missteps he’s made in politics.
But perhaps the most striking part of the interview is his clarity on where he’s going next. Will he return to Nollywood? Or is he aiming even higher in politics?
He doesn’t say outright. But the glint in his eye says there’s more ahead.
Watch full video :https://vimeo.com/1083973496
