Angela Ijeoma Okorie (Angela Okorie)

Angela Ijeoma Okorie (born October 29, 1975, in Cotonou, Benin Republic) is a celebrated Nigerian actress, singer, and entrepreneur who has left an indelible mark on Nollywood. Hailing from Ishiagu in the Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Nigeria, Angela has starred in over 100 films since her career began in 2009, establishing herself as one of the most versatile talents in the Nigerian entertainment industry.

Early Life and Education

Angela Okorie was born as the third child in a family of five. She spent her formative years in Cotonou, Benin Republic, before relocating to Nigeria. She pursued higher education at the University of Lagos, where she obtained a degree in Theatre Arts, and furthered her studies in Public Administration at Lagos State University. Angela’s passion for the arts began early, and she credits her upbringing for shaping her strong cultural identity and work ethic.

Career

Acting

Angela ventured into Nollywood in 2009, following a decade-long stint as a model for a soap company. Her debut came with the film “Sincerity”, produced by Stanley Egbonini and directed by Ifeanyi Ogbonna, alongside stars like Chigozie Atuanya, Nonso Diobi, Yemi Blaq, and Oge Okoye. Angela gained widespread recognition after her performance in “Holy Serpent”, which solidified her reputation as a versatile and charismatic actress.

Over the years, Angela has appeared in a variety of films, including:

• “Secret Code”
• “Heart of a Widow”
• “Gallant Babes”
• “The Code”
• “Royal Vampire”

By 2014, Angela was described by Vanguard Newspaper as one of Nollywood’s “most sought-after actresses,” praised for her ability to interpret roles with ease.

Music and Entrepreneurship

In addition to her acting prowess, Angela ventured into music, releasing songs such as “E Pain Dem” and “Someday.” She describes music as an integral part of her life and has written numerous songs. Angela has also expressed interest in film production and entrepreneurship, further showcasing her diverse talents.

Personal Life

Angela was previously married to Chukwuma Orizu, with whom she shares a son, Chamberlain Orizu. The couple later divorced. In July 2020, rumors emerged that Angela had remarried Nwele Michael Chukwudi, popularly known as “Baby Chuchu,” after photos of a private beach ceremony surfaced online. Angela later clarified that the event was a publicity stunt for her song “Baby Chuchu.”

Angela is fiercely private about her family life, often separating her personal life from her public persona. She has, however, been vocal about her views on controversial topics like social media’s role in relationships and cultural values.

Controversies and Relationships

Angela Okorie’s career has been marked by numerous controversies and public disputes, often making headlines in Nollywood’s close-knit community.

Feud with Uche Elendu (2023)

In 2023, Angela Okorie accused fellow actress Uche Elendu of conspiring with bloggers to tarnish her image. She alleged that Elendu worked behind the scenes to spread false rumors about her personal and professional life. This public spat exposed deep-seated tensions within the Nollywood industry, where competition and rivalry often fuel feuds among actors.

Public Feud with Zubby Michael (2024)

Angela Okorie and Zubby Michael had a highly publicized fallout in 2024, leading to heated exchanges on social media. The root cause of their disagreement remains unclear, but insiders claim it stemmed from professional jealousy and personal grievances. The rift gained widespread media attention until veteran actor Pete Edochie intervened in November 2024, successfully mediating a reconciliation between the two stars.

Assassination Attempt (2019)

In December 2019, Angela Okorie survived a terrifying assassination attempt that nearly claimed her life. According to her account, unknown gunmen ambushed her vehicle, unleashing gunfire that lasted for over 30 minutes. Miraculously, she survived, later revealing that 10 bullets were removed from her head and two bullets close to her eyes.

Angela attributed her survival to divine intervention, but the incident left her deeply traumatized. She struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and had difficulty sleeping for months. However, some individuals and online critics questioned the authenticity of her injuries, accusing her of exaggerating or faking the attack for publicity. Despite these accusations, Angela maintained her stance, stating that she escaped death by God’s grace.

Public Feuds and Accusations

Angela Okorie has never shied away from addressing controversial issues within the entertainment industry. She has openly criticized the behaviors of certain celebrities, leading to multiple disputes with her colleagues.

Criticism of Fellow Actresses (May 2024)

In May 2024, Angela took to social media to blast fellow Nollywood actresses who, according to her, engage in romantic relationships with married men in exchange for luxury lifestyles. She accused them of promiscuity and involvement in money rituals, igniting heated debates online. This statement stirred reactions from many actresses, some of whom refuted her claims and labeled her comments as hypocritical.

Dispute with Burna Boy (February 2025)

In February 2025, Angela Okorie accused Nigerian music superstar Burna Boy of manipulating a woman, Sophia Egbueje. According to her, Burna Boy promised Sophia a Lamborghini in exchange for intimacy but failed to fulfill his promise. The accusation caused an uproar on social media, with Burna Boy’s fans dismissing her claims as baseless. However, Angela stood by her statements, insisting that the artist had taken advantage of the woman’s trust.

Addressing False Claims

As a high-profile celebrity, Angela Okorie has been the subject of numerous rumors and fake news. She has consistently taken steps to clear misconceptions about her personal and professional life.

False Eviction Rumors (November 2024)

In November 2024, rumors surfaced online claiming that Angela had been evicted from her residence due to unpaid debts. Addressing the allegations, Angela vehemently denied the claims, stating that she owned her property and was not financially struggling. She used her social media platforms to set the record straight and expose those spreading the false narrative.

Warnings Against Social Media Attacks (October 2024)

In October 2024, Angela warned individuals and bloggers against spreading false information about her. She emphasized her resilience and strong faith in God, declaring that no amount of falsehoods would bring her down.

Health Struggles Post-Assassination Attempt

Following the 2019 assassination attempt, Angela Okorie revealed that she suffered from insomnia and had to rely on medication to sleep. The traumatic event left her deeply shaken, and she admitted to experiencing anxiety and fear of public spaces. Despite the challenges, she remained grateful for her survival, urging her fans to appreciate life and good health.

Stance on Social Issues

Angela Okorie has been outspoken about sensitive topics, refusing to conform to public expectations.

Opposition to Lesbianism

Angela has publicly expressed her strong opposition to lesbianism, citing cultural and religious beliefs as the foundation of her stance. Her comments on the subject have been controversial, with critics accusing her of homophobia. However, Angela has remained firm in her views, stating that she is entitled to her personal and religious convictions.

Awards and Recognitions

Angela’s contributions to Nollywood have earned her multiple accolades, including:

• City People Entertainment Award for Best Supporting Actress (2015)
• Recognitions from various film and cultural organizations for her performances and advocacy.

Filmography

Angela has starred in a wide range of films, showcasing her versatility:

• “Sincerity” (2009)
• “Holy Serpent” (2011)
• “Gallant Babes” (2011)
• “The Code” (2011)
• “Divorce Not Allowed” (2018)
• “Fubara’s Wish” (2020)

Associations with Igbo Personalities

Angela has collaborated with notable Igbo actors and filmmakers, such as:

• Kenneth Okonkwo in “Holy Serpent.”
• Pete Edochie, who mediated her reconciliation with Zubby Michael.
• Chigozie Atuanya, who co-starred in her debut film, “Sincerity.”

These collaborations have significantly influenced her career trajectory.

Cultural Views and Advocacy

Angela has spoken openly about societal and cultural issues. She has expressed opposition to certain Western influences, citing the importance of preserving African values. On social media and public platforms, she has championed causes such as:

• Women’s empowerment: Advocating for more significant roles for women in Nollywood.
• Cultural preservation: Criticizing nudity in films and emphasizing modesty.

Legacy and Future Aspirations

Angela Okorie’s journey reflects resilience, talent, and determination. From her early days as a model to becoming a Nollywood star and a budding musician, Angela continues to inspire many with her multifaceted career. Looking forward, Angela aims to expand her influence in the entertainment industry through music and film production, ensuring her legacy as a versatile and dedicated artist.

Angela remains a respected figure in Nollywood, celebrated for her contributions to the industry and her commitment to cultural values.

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