Because the Nineteen Eighties, the identify Pete Edochie has resonated throughout generations of film lovers—and it continues to take action to today—stays a towering determine in Nollywood.
For Gen Z audiences who will not be conversant in his unforgettable performances, notably in Issues Fall Aside, his look in skit maker Mr Macaroni’s The Avengers of Nollywood would undoubtedly introduce them to his deep voice and regal presence—qualities that command immense respect.
Principally considered one among Nigeria’s most gifted actors, Edochie has spent a long time bringing fearless kings and clever elders to life on display screen, crafting a profession that stands as a masterclass in storytelling.
Because the Anambra native marks his 78th birthday on Friday, PREMIUM TIMES highlights the long-lasting roles which have outlined his illustrious profession.
Issues Fall Aside
Launched in 1987 as a TV collection, ‘Issues Fall Aside’ featured Edochie within the iconic function of Okonkwo, a posh character pushed by concern and an intense want to keep away from his father’s perceived weak spot.
The collection was an adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s 1958 novel, produced by the Nigerian Tv Authority (NTA).
Edochie masterfully portrayed Okonkwo’s internal turmoil, power, and eventual tragic downfall.
Article Web page with Monetary Assist Promotion
He embodied the character’s satisfaction, inflexible adherence to custom, and incapability to adapt to altering instances.
The novel, Achebe’s debut work, was written whereas working on the Nigerian Broadcasting Company. It was first printed in London by Heinemann on June 17, 1958.
Edochie’s profession could be incomplete with out ‘Issues Fall Aside’, a job he performed at 38.
The late G.C. Ugwu, then Zonal Director of NTA Benin, really helpful him for the function. He was invited to audition on the principal auditorium of the College of Nigeria, Enugu Campus.
Igodo
Produced by Don Pedro Obaseki in 1999 and directed by Andy Amenechi, ‘Igodo’ featured Edochie as an older and influential chief who guided his neighborhood via perilous instances.
His commanding presence and authoritative supply made him the proper match for such roles.
The journey movie follows seven warriors on a harmful mission to the ‘Land of the Dwelling Lifeless’ to retrieve a mystical weapon able to breaking a lethal curse that plagues their kingdom.
Billionaire’s Membership
Directed by Afam Okereke and launched in 2003, ‘Billionaire’s Membership’ featured Edochie as Billion, a rich businessman who wielded vital energy and affect.
The movie tells the story of a secret society of males who use occult powers to control others and purchase wealth via blood cash.
Edochie’s function explored themes of ambition, corruption, and the implications of unchecked energy.
Lionheart
Within the 2018 drama ‘Lionheart’, Edochie performed Chief Ernest Obiagu, the proprietor of Lionheart Transport Firm and the daddy of Adaeze and Obiora.
He additionally portrayed Abigail Obiagu’s husband. The movie was produced by Chinny Onwugbenu and directed by Genevieve Nnaji.
His function as a enterprise patriarch who values household and custom showcased his capacity to adapt to modern narratives whereas sustaining his signature presence.
Nnaji’s directorial debut, which additionally marked the performing debut of Peter Okoye and Chibuzor ‘Phyno’ Azubuike, follows Adaeze Obiagu as she steps as much as run her father’s firm after he falls ailing, dealing with the challenges of a male-dominated business.
Netflix acquired ‘Lionheart’ on September 7, 2018, making it the primary Nigerian Netflix Unique.
The movie premiered on the 2018 Toronto Worldwide Movie Competition and was launched globally on Netflix on January 4, 2019.
Rituals
Directed by Andy Amenechi and written by Kenneth Nnebue, ‘Rituals’ (1997) featured Edochie as Don Pedro, a patron of the notorious Vampires’ Confraternity.
The movie follows Desmond (Sola Fosudo), an aspiring gubernatorial candidate who joins the Vampire Confraternity.
To safe energy, he’s requested to sacrifice his mom and spouse. Nevertheless, karma catches up with him when he in the end loses the election.
The film sheds gentle on societal ills and darkish secrets and techniques beforehand solely whispered.
Foreigner’s God
Launched in 2019, ‘Foreigner’s God’ was produced by Kelechi Freeman Ukadike and directed by Ifan Ifeanyi Michael beneath Ifan Michael Productions.
Within the movie, Edochie performs the function of a storyteller, including depth and cultural richness to the narrative.
The story follows an English documentary photographer who arrives in Igbo land in the course of the colonial period.
Nevertheless, the plot turns supernatural when his bodyguard mysteriously disappears, and he falls in love with a subhuman witch within the jungle.
Past his iconic roles within the above motion pictures, Edochie has starred in quite a few different movies, incomes an Trade Advantage Award from Africa Magic and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Africa Movie Academy.
His different notable movies embrace Heavy Battle, by which he performed a chief, Check Your Coronary heart, Best Harvest, Secret Ache, and Truthful Sport.
Pete Edochie
Edochie, born in Zaria, Kaduna State, attended St. Patrick’s and St. James Major Faculties for his early training.
He later proceeded to St. John’s School for his secondary training.
He furthered his research on the Faculty of Journalism and Tv in England.
READ ALSO: TRAVELOGUE: From Nuisance to Goldmine: Exploring hidden wealth of Water Hyacinth in Epe
At Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS), he served as Director of Programmes whereas often doubling as Deputy Managing Director and generally performing as Managing Director.
Edochie resigned from ABS after the federal government determined to politicise the FM station’s affairs, dismissing your entire administration staff, together with him.
He had been the fast successor to the MD earlier than his departure, which prompted his transition into the film business.
Earlier than totally venturing into Nollywood, he had already gained recognition for his function in ‘Issues Fall Aside’, which earned him a world award.
His efficiency was so impactful that the BBC flew to Nigeria to interview him about his portrayal of Okonkwo.
Edochie is married to Josephine Edochie, and so they have six kids.
In 2009, he was kidnapped however was later launched unhurt by his captors.
In September 2017, he endorsed the Wikimedia motion in Nigeria by showing in a video marketing campaign to extend Wikipedia consciousness and utilization amongst older generations.
In 2020, he was honoured with the African Movie Legend Award on the African Movie Competition (TAFF).
Assist PREMIUM TIMES’ journalism of integrity and credibility
At Premium Instances, we firmly consider within the significance of high-quality journalism. Recognizing that not everybody can afford pricey information subscriptions, we’re devoted to delivering meticulously researched, fact-checked information that continues to be freely accessible to all.
Whether or not you flip to Premium Instances for each day updates, in-depth investigations into urgent nationwide points, or entertaining trending tales, we worth your readership.
It’s important to acknowledge that information manufacturing incurs bills, and we take satisfaction in by no means putting our tales behind a prohibitive paywall.
Would you think about supporting us with a modest contribution on a month-to-month foundation to assist keep our dedication to free, accessible information?
Make Contribution
TEXT AD: Name Willie – +2348098788999
