LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- Nollywood actor Clemson Cornell Agbogidi has recalled a memorable incident involving veteran actress Liz Benson on a movie set.
The veteran actor gave details about how the veteran actress allegedly fled a movie scene after his portrayal of a native doctor convinced her that a real “babalawo” was on set.
Agbogidi said the scene took an intense turn when he brought a live chicken onto the set as part of his character’s traditional ritual.
According to the actor, he quickly decapitated the chicken during the scene, leaving Benson convinced that the production had brought an actual native doctor to perform alongside her.
“When I brought a live chicken on set and decapitated the chicken in a twinkle of an eye, I separated the head from the body,” he recalled.
Agbogidi said Benson became so unsettled by his portrayal of the role that she refused to continue filming the scene.
“Liz said she’s not playing again,” the actor stated.
Agbogidi said the incident reflected how seriously he approaches his roles, insisting that he aims to fully embody every character he plays.
“I have always believed that I interpret a role perfectly. If I’m doing it, I’m doing it,” he said.
The actor further described the intensity he brings to his performances, saying his facial expression alone can make it difficult for people to remain comfortable around him while he is in character.
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“When you look at me, my eyes are blazing and you can’t stand me,” he added.
Agbogidi also used the experience to discuss traditional African beliefs and practices before the arrival of Christianity.
He argued that people who practised indigenous religions in the past should not automatically be considered evil simply because they worshipped idols.
“Before Christianity, our forefathers were there. Most of them that worshipped idols were not evil. Some of them were so conscious,” he said.
He explained that traditional worshippers also lived by certain restrictions and feared consequences for breaking them.
“There were things they could not do because they could be killed,” he added.
Agbogidi then contrasted those traditional restrictions with what he described as the behaviour of some Christians today.
“But today, Christians, they do and do and undo…” he added.
