Modeling and acting are two of Gbenro Ajibade's greatest passions, and he has successfully interwoven both passions with a healthy dose of commitment and dexterity to earn him reputable positions in both professions. He started off his career as a model in 2005 shortly after graduating from the University and since then, has graced hundreds of runways within the country and beyond. He has been a notable face on Billboards, TV commercials, press adverts and more and was the recipent of the Most Outstanding Actor Model in the Nigerian Model Achievers Awards 2011. But it was through the MNet Series, 'Tinsel' that Gbenro had his biggest break. Gbenro plays the character, 'Soji' Bankole', Ziggy's bartender and aspiring photographer and the very protective boyfriend of 'Telema Duke'. He speaks to Adeola Adeyemo about 'Tinsel', modeling and more in this exclusive interview.
It's hard to believe that Gbenro Ajibade had no experience in acting before getting on the set of 'Tinsel' in 2007. Through his character 'Soji', he has warmed his way into the hearts of millions of viewers across the continent. Meeting him was an interesting experience. He was every bit as charming as the 'Soji' we see on our screens and even more; funny and very friendly.
Separating 'Gbenro' from 'Soji'
It's so nice to meet you Gbenro, but I can't help calling you Soji, who is one of my favourite characters in 'Tinsel'. Tell me about your character.
Soji is a 20-year old Yoruba boy although he speaks Hausa. He is down to earth, open minded, always happy and everyone's favourite.
Why is Soji so over-protective of Telema? It gets really annoying sometimes.
That is a story I love telling. Soji and Telema never had intercourse when they started dating. They both agreed to wait till their wedding night. Then one stupid goat from Ghana called Kwame came into the picture and a couple of days to their wedding, Kwame disvirgined Telema. From her own point of view, she said it was a mistake. She hid it from Soji until their wedding day when she didn't show up at the wedding and eventually told him what happened later. He practically passed out. Telema has always been the love of Soji's life so he feels it is his duty to protect her.
I love the guy.He is just sooooooooo cute.
The guy is cute.