Nollywood actress Mercy Aigbe has revealed that rejection, humiliation and emotional setbacks in the early years of her career played a major role in shaping her success, saying the painful experiences strengthened her resolve to succeed.
Speaking in a recent interview, Aigbe said many people only see her achievements today without knowing the challenges she overcame to get there.
“The scars that challenge us the most eventually become what shape us.”
“Most times, the scars we try to hide become our strength, growth, and purpose.”
She added: “People look at Mercy today, all dressed up, beautiful, and shining… but to God be the glory.”
“It wasn’t easy at the beginning.”
Recalling one of the most difficult moments of her career, Aigbe said she was on the set of the movie Akuko Ija when actor Yomi Fash-Lanso mentioned he was heading to another film set where she believed she had also been cast after previously receiving the script.
She said she called the producer, who was also a friend, to find out why she had not been invited, but was met with an unexpected response.
“The only Mercy that I know is Mercy Johnson.”
“But what do you want?”
According to Aigbe, the producer later told her she would need permission before accepting acting jobs from other producers if she wanted to continue getting roles.
“If you want me to be calling you for my jobs, you have to be getting permission from me before you go on any set.”
The actress said the incident occurred after she had already spent about four years building her acting career, leaving her deeply hurt.
“I felt so bad, and I cried.”
Despite the disappointment, Aigbe said she refused to abandon her dream of becoming a successful actress.
“I was discouraged and demoralised.”
“But I found courage.”
“That is one thing you need to be successful in the creative industry.”
She said believing in herself helped her overcome the setback.
“There is a need to believe in yourself and believe in your journey, and I kept going because I believed in myself.”
“I kept attending auditions and giving my best.”
Aigbe disclosed that about four years later, the same producer contacted her with another acting opportunity.
Rather than holding on to the past, she accepted the offer and gave her best performance.
The actress also advised aspiring actors not to depend solely on talent, stressing that discipline, character and continuous learning are equally important.
“Talent alone does not guarantee success in this industry.”
She encouraged young creatives to embrace personal growth and remain committed to improving themselves.
“Growth is very important, and it is not pretty… You have to keep learning, reinventing yourself, and adding value to who you are.”
She also urged them to use social media responsibly.
“Use your social media handles as your CV, and be kind.”
Aigbe said resilience, self-belief and forgiveness remain essential qualities for anyone seeking lasting success in the creative industry.