LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- Nigerian film icon Dele Odule has shared how he once lost hope in his future and went as far as negotiating the price of his own casket during a dark period of his life.
Speaking in an interview with Feelright TV, the seasoned actor described a time when both his career and personal life seemed stuck, despite years of relentless effort.
Odule revealed that the lack of progress became overwhelming, especially when compared to the success of his peers.
“I wasn’t sick, I just believed I can no longer have breakthroughs in the industry. I was fed up. Because all my school mates are doing far better than me and my life was nothing to write home about,” the actor said.
At the height of his despair, Odule explained that he began preparing for death. Accompanied by fellow actor Olaiya Igwe, he visited a casket seller to make inquiries, negotiating a price for his own casket to ease his family the burden of doing it.
The gravity of the moment quickly became clear to Olaiya who burst into tears when confronted by the actor’s decision.
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“I had priced my own casket before, when I was in a state of hopelessness, and complete loss of hope. Olaiya Igwe went there with me. Olaiya started crying like a baby,” Odule added.
Beyond career struggles, the actor also faced a devastating personal ordeal involving his son, Dele, who suffered from an unidentified illness.
Despite seeking medical help at several hospitals, including the University College Hospital (ICH) in Ibadan, and exploring both traditional and spiritual options, all efforts to save him proved unsuccessful.
The death of his son, combined with other challenges, pushed him to his emotional limit.
Meanwhile, his story did not end in despair as over time, the actor found his footing and rebuilt his life and career.
Today, he is widely respected in Nollywood, celebrated for his contributions to both English and Yoruba cinema, and recognized with numerous awards.
