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In an exclusive interview, actress and creator Real Soso (Sophia Chisom) shares how she used skit-making to enter Nollywood and discusses her career. Read More: https://punchng.com/i-started-skits-to-make-it-into-nollywood-real-soso/

Content creator and actress, Sophia Chisom, popularly known as Real Soso, tells ANJOLA DAWODU about her career and other issues

You started your career by appearing in social media skits. At what point did you realise this could become a fulltime career?

I always wanted to be an actor; I just needed a way to get into the entertainment space so that producers and directors would discover me. That was why I went into skit-making.

At the time, it wasn’t just about creating content for fun; it was about visibility. I understood that if people could see me consistently, it would increase my chances of being noticed. So, I treated it as a stepping stone rather than the final destination.

How did “Soso the pure water seller” change your life?

She was the starting point for my career, so she was very important in my early stage. That character gave people something to connect with and helped me stand out.

But for entertainment, I didn’t actually start with skits. I started by posting make-up-free pictures, and that was how I got into the industry. From there, I moved into skit-making, which I did for a while before deciding it was time to fully transition into acting.

So, “Soso the pure water seller” was important, but it was part of a larger journey.

Have you ever felt underestimated because you started as a skit-maker?

No, I haven’t. In fact, I think it worked in my favour.

When I moved into the movie industry, I didn’t come in as someone completely unknown. I already had an audience, so I wasn’t starting from scratch. That meant I didn’t have to charge like a newcomer, because people were booking me not just for my acting, but also for my “social media” influence.

So, instead of being underestimated, I felt like I came in with an advantage.

You’ve worked with Saga and Michael Dapa. Who is easier to build chemistry with on set?

They are both good. Saga is my gee (good friend), so we already have a certain kind of chemistry. Dapa is also my friend, so the connection is there too.

The difference is just in how the chemistry shows up. It’s not about one being better than the other; it’s just different dynamics.

You and Saga have a very noticeable vibe on screen. Is it natural or intentional?

It’s natural. Saga is my friend, so if someone is your friend—your guy—it just comes naturally. You don’t have to force anything.

That’s the thing about chemistry; when it’s real, it reflects on screen without effort.

What is the most awkward moment you’ve had with co-stars on set?

There was a kissing scene with an actor who had smoked before we shot. When he opened his mouth, it was really uncomfortable.

I felt disgusted, to be honest. It was awkward, but at the same time, you still have to stay professional and get the job done.

What is acting to you?

Acting is business. It’s the same way you wake up in the morning to open your store; it’s the same way you wake up to go on set.

Yes, there’s passion, but let’s be honest; if it wasn’t bringing in money, most people wouldn’t be doing it. So, you have to think like a businesswoman.

You have to decide what jobs to take, whether something is worth your time, and whether it brings exposure or money. It’s all about making smart decisions. So, for me, acting is a business; it just depends on how you look at it.

Do you feel pressured to maintain a certain body standard because of social media and your career?

No, I don’t feel that kind of pressure. I don’t really care for the media in that sense.

For me, it’s about living a healthy lifestyle. As a woman, your body changes naturally, and you can’t base your life on social media expectations.

So, it’s not about pressure; it’s about health and personal choices.

There is always this idea that women in entertainment don’t support one another. Has that ever been your experience?

Not really. When I was making my skits, every woman I reached out to supported me.

From Omoni Oboli to Bimbo Ademoye, Kiekie, Blessing Obasi, Ngozi Nwosu—those women were kind and open to working with me. All I had to do was reach out respectfully.

Of course, not everyone will support you, but the ones I worked with did, and I appreciate them for that.

What is the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you while filming content or a film?

Honestly, I don’t think I have had any embarrassing moments. Nothing comes to mind.

What fun moment have you had on set while filming?

Being on set is always fun when the energy is right. But one that really stands out was filming Saga’s movie, ‘Falling Notes’.

It was a long shoot—about seven or eight days—but the energy was amazing. Everyone was young, positive, and easy to work with. We moved from the island to the mainland, ate amala, and just had a good time.

When the set has good vibes, it makes the whole experience enjoyable.

How do you draw the line between acting, chemistry, and real-life emotions?

I leave the character at the doorstep when I’m done. Once we wrap, that’s it.

The character doesn’t follow me home. Acting is acting, and real life is real life; you have to separate both.

Have you ever had to act a romantic scene with someone you don’t vibe with?

Yes, I have. You won’t vibe with everyone; that’s just the truth.

How did you handle the scene with such people?

You remind yourself that you’re an actor. It’s your job.

So, you just suck it up, do your work, and go home. Acting is make-believe; you have to play the role regardless of how you feel.

The truth is, you won’t vibe with everyone you work with—actors, directors, or producers—but you still have to remain professional.

Do you think it is possible to work closely with someone attractive and not develop feelings?

Yes, it is. You can’t develop feelings for every attractive person you work with; that’s unrealistic. You have to be able to separate work from personal emotions. If not, you’ll just create unnecessary complications for yourself.

Fans most times love to “ship” you and your co-stars. Do you find it flattering or uncomfortable?

It’s fine. Fans will always ship people; it’s part of the industry. It only becomes a problem if you take it seriously. At the end of the day, it’s just for fun.

Between Saga and Michael Dapa, who brings out the most believable romantic moments with you?

I think that’s for the viewers to decide. They are the ones watching and interpreting what they see.

Do you think attraction helps or complicates acting romantic scenes?

If anything, it helps. I don’t think it complicates.

Do you think some actors blur the line between acting and real feelings?

Yes, some people do. They mistake on-set chemistry for real-life emotions. But acting is make-believe—you have to understand that.

Have you ever had to act cool when something awkward happened during a romantic scene?

Yes, I have. I was angry internally, but I had to stay professional because we were still filming. You can’t always react the way you feel in that moment. You have to finish the job first.

Have you ever worked with someone who had bad hygiene?

It happens, especially when you’ve been on set for long hours. What I usually do is handle it subtly. I’ll say I want gum, take one, and offer the person as well so it doesn’t feel awkward.

Have you ever turned down a big offer because it didn’t align with your brand?

Yes, I have. I have turned down scripts, even close to production. That’s something I learnt from a conversation with Omoni Oboli—if it doesn’t align with your career, walk away.

Do your skits come from real-life experience or just imagination?

They come from real-life experiences.

Some people still believe that skit makers are not real actors. Have you ever experienced that bias?

Not directly, but I do believe that not all skit-makers are actors.

You’ve built a strong online audience. How do you stay consistent?

It’s not easy, especially when you’re busy with acting. But whenever I have time, I try to post something, just to stay connected with my audience.

How do you maintain your privacy in such a public career?

I only share what I want people to know. What I don’t want you to know, I don’t put out there. It’s very simple.

What role has challenged you the most, and why?

A role in ‘When the Glass Breaks’. The character was very different from who I am, so it was challenging. But I had a great director, and that helped me deliver.

Who is Real Soso when the camera is off?

Just someone who enjoys staying at home, sleeping, watching movies, reading, eating, and travelling when I can.

How does it feel to be recognised as an AMVCA nominee?

It feels surreal. I’m still shaken, but I’m grateful to God.

Were you expecting it at all?

I was hoping it would come.

What would winning this award mean to you at this point in your career?

It would mean a lot. Winning an AMVCA puts a strong, positive mark on your career and opens more doors.