Meet one of My Siblings And actor who killed his role as “Henry”, Angela’s boyfriend. He recently had an exclusive chat with one of Obaland Magazine reporters Esther Pushe Egbe, where he explained how the soap opera has opened more doors for him in the Nollywood industry.
Can you introduce yourself to our audience?
My name is Justin Ubong-Abasi Benedict best known as JUSTIN BEN. I’m 24 years old and I hail from Akwa-Ibom state, Essien Udim L.G.A to be precise. I was born, breed and brought up in Lagos state. I’m an entertainer (An actor, dance/ choreographer, singer, model, compere, etc).
Did you like acting since childhood?
Yes, I have liked acting since childhood.
When did you decided that you want to become an actor?
Since I was in primary school. My family and my then classmates can attest to that.
Who are your biggest influences? Samuel L. Jackson, Will Smith, Floyd Igbo and William Benson.
How and when exactly did you realize you had the passion for acting?
When I started attending Christ Tabernacle International Christian Centre (CTICC) in 2005, I discovered I was multi-talented. I never knew I had a thing for Performing Arts until I had an encounter at church.
Which role that you have played you like the most?
First, I’ll say Prince Nosa because it’s my current major role. Then Akin in Memory Lane, Henry in My Siblings And I, finally, Belgium in TRUTH.
What is more important for a person, inner beauty, or an external one?
What ignites inside will definitely radiate on the outside so it’s surely gonna be “Inner Beauty”.
What message would you want to give to your fans?
“Seek ye first the kingdom of God and every other thing shall be added unto you.” Don’t you ever give up on what you believe in and always believe in yourself. You’re more than what you can ever imagine!
What do you like about acting the most?
The ability to become anybody and feel different emotions.
Did you take up any training in acting?
Yes, sometime in 2015. I enrolled for acting training with Ifeanyi Henry Obi. It lasted for like two months thereabout. I didn’t get a certificate for the training though but I learnt a lot. Then I continued with personal training, reading articles and watching videos that pertains to acting before I met Floyd Igbo and William Benson in 2017. Over the years, indirectly and directly I’ve learnt a whole lot from these amazing men. Asin, these men are powerhouses, no cap!
When did you start acting?
I started acting way back in primary school but professionally, it started in 2015 when my first audition got me my first gig.
Who inspires you? God.
Do you like something other than acting?
Well Like I said, I’m an entertainer so anything that pertains to entertainment gives me so much joy. I also like sports. Growing up, I was one of the best athletes in my primary school. I like anything that’s related to track and field games. I also like table tennis table games.
Why did you choose acting?
I did because acting is life to me. It’s what I love and enjoy doing.
Tell me how you got your first role as an actor?
It was actually through an audition and I got a callback.
How did you get the role in my Siblings and I?
Well, a friend of mine referred me. His name is Tomiwa Tegbe. I was at an audition around Ikeja G.R.A, sometime in early 2018 when his call came in. I picked and after exchanging pleasantries, he asked me to send my pictures which I later did. In the pictures sent, I had an afro haircut, so he asked if I still had my full hair then I replied no, that I’m actually on a low cut. A few minutes later he buzzed and asked if I can start coming to Amen Estate right away and I said yes. So I left the audition without being auditioned and hit the road. …