- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
Best Actor in a Supporting Role – Africa Movie Academy Awards
Most Promising Actor in Nigeria – Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards
Best New Indigenous Actor (Igbo Category) – City People Entertainment Awards
Most Promising Act to Watch – Best of Nollywood Awards
Onuchukwu Michael Okpokwu, popularly known as Onny Michael, is a renowned Nigerian actor, writer, producer, filmmaker, artist, model, and brand influencer. With a career spanning over two decades in Nollywood, he is widely recognized for his versatility in playing both action and romantic roles.
Table of Contents
Early Life and Background
Date and Place of Birth
Onny Michael was born on April 26, 1978, in Enugu State, Nigeria. He hails from Amaraku village in the Isi-Ala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.
Family and Heritage
Onny Michael was born into the Okpokwu family. His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Okpokwu, are from Enugu State. His mother is 71 years old, and he is the fourth child in a family of six siblings.
Despite sharing the same surname with Zubby Michael, Onny and Zubby are not related. While Zubby Michael is from Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State, Onny Michael is from Enugu State.
Education
Onny Michael completed his primary and secondary school education in Enugu State. He later attended the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), where he earned a degree in Fine and Applied Arts.
As a proud alumnus of UNN, Onny Michael often acknowledges how his education helped shape his career in the arts and entertainment industry.
Career
Onny Michael started his journey in Nollywood in the late 1990s but only gained widespread recognition after 12 years of minor roles, where he often played palace guards or servants.
Breakthrough and Success
His breakthrough came when he landed leading roles in major productions, propelling him into the limelight. Since then, he has acted in over 170 movies, making him a sought-after celebrity in Nollywood.
Notable Movies
Some of the blockbuster films he has featured in include:
- True Love
- Wedding Anniversary
- Sins of Yesterday
- My Decision
- The Other Side of Love
- Pierced Soul
- Love in Crime
- Baby Nanny
- The Sisterhood of the Blackbra
- Take Me Home
- Prayer Is the Master Key
- Lost in London
- Broken from Birth
Production and YouTube Channel
As a producer, Onny Michael has successfully created several films, including:
- All I Have
- Love to Cheat
- Broken from Birth
- Lost in London
These films can be viewed on his YouTube channel, Onny Michael TV, which has over 24,000 subscribers.
Endorsements and Business Ventures
In 2022, he signed a multi-million naira brand ambassadorial deal with a real estate company.
Personal Life
Marriage and Family
Onny Michael got married to his wife, Brandie Ifemamarama Michael, on April 12, 2014. She is a celebrity makeup artist and the CEO of Ifemarama Events, an event planning company based in Asaba.
Their union is blessed with two daughters:
- Chimamanda Michaels (born March 16, 2015)
- Chikaima Sophia Michael (born May 19, 2021)
Onny surprised his wife with a brand-new car on her birthday, showcasing his appreciation for her love and support.
Controversies and Scandals
Allegations of Infidelity
In 2022, actress Ifunanya Igwe accused Onny Michael of being unfaithful and “sleeping with anything in a skirt.” While Onny did not directly address the rumors, his fans fiercely defended him, and he simply responded with “God bless you.”
Feud with Zubby Michael
Despite both being prominent Nollywood actors, Onny Michael and Zubby Michael have had several misunderstandings over the years. The tension between them reportedly stems from professional rivalry and clashing personalities on set.
Lifestyle and Assets
Houses and Cars
Onny Michael lives a luxurious lifestyle and owns several expensive properties. In 2023, he completed his magnificent mansion, which he proudly showcased on Instagram with the caption: “God did it, I thank God for this one.”
His car collection includes high-end vehicles that reflect his status in the entertainment industry.
Fashion and Social Life
Apart from acting, Onny is also a fashionista and model, frequently spotted wearing stylish outfits that enhance his public image.
Religious Beliefs
Onny Michael is a devout Catholic. He was seen taking Holy Communion during Ekene Umenwa’s wedding thanksgiving at a Catholic church.
Awards and Recognitions
Over the years, Onny Michael has won multiple awards, including:
- Best Actor in a Leading Role – Africa Movie Academy Awards
- Best Actor in a Supporting Role – Africa Movie Academy Awards
- Most Promising Actor in Nigeria – Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards
- Best New Indigenous Actor (Igbo Category) – City People Entertainment Awards
- Most Promising Act to Watch – Best of Nollywood Awards
His contributions to Nollywood have been widely acknowledged, making him a respected figure in the Nigerian film industry.
Political Involvement
Onny Michael has not contested in any political elections but has been actively involved in charity work and community development.
Social Media Presence
Onny Michael is highly active on social media, where he engages with fans and promotes his films.
- Instagram: @OnnyMichael (800K+ followers)
- Facebook: Onny Michael
- YouTube: Onny Michael TV
Conclusion
Onny Michael is a multi-talented and hardworking Nollywood star whose dedication has kept him relevant in the entertainment industry. From his humble beginnings to becoming a household name, he remains one of the most celebrated actors in Nollywood.
Despite controversies, Onny continues to thrive in his career and family life, solidifying his legacy in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
References
- City People Entertainment Awards. (2023). Best Nollywood Actors and Actresses of the Year. Lagos, Nigeria.
- Nollywood Times. (2024). Onny Michael: A Journey Through Nollywood. Retrieved from www.nollywoodtimes.com
- Zubby, M. (2023). Behind the Scenes in Nollywood. Lagos: African Film Press.
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