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Broda Shaggi: My skits are therapeutic

Samuel Animashaun Perry, widely known as Broda Shaggi, is a multi-talented entertainer who excels in comedy, acting, songwriting, and music. He has achieved significant recognition, winning the Best Actor in a Comedy, Movie, or TV Series award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) in both 2022 and 2023. Born and raised in Sagamu, Ogun State, Broda Shaggi’s passion for acting was influenced by his father, a drama teacher. He holds a degree in Creative Arts from the University of Lagos. Initially, he gained popularity through his short comedy skits shared on social media, which showcased his satirical plays. This success opened doors for him to feature in movies and release music. In an interview with IJEOMA THOMAS-ODIA, Broda Shaggi discusses his creative passion and diverse endeavors.

How did you start your journey in the movie industry?

My journey in the movie industry began many years ago and has always been a part of me since my teenage years. I participated in stage plays, dance shows/competitions, and various creative performances. When I got into the University of Lagos, I founded a group called ‘Stage addicts,’ and we performed at school events and off-campus shows. During that time, I also attended auditions for movie roles and got invited to play ‘Waka pass’ roles in some films. For instance, I appeared as a crowd member in the wedding scene of Wedding Party (part 1). As I continued to work hard, my brand, Broda Shaggi, gained popularity, leading to more significant roles. One of the movies that established me as an actor was Toyin Abraham’s Fate Of Alakada. After that, I started getting major roles in movies.

Do you have plans to produce your own movies?

I believe in taking gradual steps and continuous learning. Entertainment is a vast field, and one should not rush from one aspect to another just because they have gained recognition. Currently, I am thriving as an actor, performer, and skit maker. However, having my own movie production is definitely part of my long-term plans for growth. It will happen as my career progresses.

How successful do you feel you are in content creation?

Content creation is an incredibly valuable and versatile phenomenon that every forward-thinking business taps into. As a content creator, one of my greatest achievements has been receiving recognition and partnerships with top brands. Under the leadership of Olufemi Oguntamu, my team has secured endorsement deals, which will be announced at a later time. All of this success is tied to my consistent dedication to delivering new levels of creativity.

Among all the activities you undertake for your brand, which do you find the easiest?

I cannot pinpoint a single activity because the truth is, I enjoy everything related to the arts. Being creative is my comfort zone, and I effortlessly switch from one aspect to another. However, if I had to choose, I would say acting is the most enjoyable for me.

Many of your skits focus on human angles. Is that a niche you have created for yourself?

In each of my skits, I strive to deliver messages to the audience. As creatives, we have a responsibility to contribute to making society better than we found it. I wholeheartedly agree with the words of renowned philosopher and arts scholar Dario Fo, who said, “A theatre, a literature, an artistic expression that does not speak for its own time and people has no relevance.” Regardless of the themes, most of my works are satirical. I also embrace Fo’s belief that “Satire can always be found everywhere. A people without love for satire is a dead people.” Satire allows us to reflect on our true selves through laughter while paying attention to the necessary corrections. Ultimately, this is aimed at making society a better place to live. Watching any of my skits daily is a recommended form of therapy for my fans worldwide.

Which skit brought you the recognition you currently enjoy?

Before the character Broda Shaggi, I had done several skits with different characters, such as Inspector Perry and Akanni Ibadan. However, the skit that propelled Broda Shaggi to fame was the one I did with my interviewer at the time, Aunty Shaggi, where she asked, “What will I do if I see Jesus in Mushin?” This skit went viral and raised concerns from various perspectives, as some people thought I was making a joke out of the name Jesus. However, as a creative, I did not intend it to be blasphemous. This particular skit brought attention to the Broda Shaggi character, and I continued to deliver consistent and committed performances, evolving over the years.

What are your thoughts on skit makers challenging Nollywood’s dominance?

I don’t think it’s a matter of skit makers challenging Nollywood’s dominance. It is more accurate to say that the skit-making industry is thriving on its own. With the help of social media, skit makers gain recognition from people all over the world and attract attention from filmmakers due to their large followings and online engagement. This, in turn, becomes a significant factor in movie marketing.

What are your expectations from the new administration regarding the creative industry?

It is too early to have specific expectations from the new administration. I hope their plans will be favorable to all of us. I look forward to seeing the government at all levels taking a greater interest in the power of content and creating an enabling environment for creatives to thrive.

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