"It Is Weird and Unpleasant": Nollywood’s Saga Adeoluwa Challenges Myths About Onscreen Romance

Nollywood star Saga Adeoluwa reveals the uncomfortable truth behind romantic scenes, calling onscreen kissing a "weird" part of the job that performers do not enjoy.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 29, 2026, 8:36 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Nation Newspaper

Demystifying the "Joy" of Onscreen Intimacy

Saga Adeoluwa, a prominent Nollywood actor and former Big Brother Naija housemate, has provided a candid look at the technical and often unappealing reality of filming romantic scenes. Speaking on the Nolly Icons podcast, Adeoluwa expressed a strong dislike for onscreen kissing, flatly contradicting the public belief that actors derive pleasure from these moments. He characterized the act as a clinical necessity for proper script interpretation rather than a romantic experience, noting that he would opt out of such scenes entirely if he had the professional freedom to do so.

The Physical Reality: "Saliva and Space Invasion"

The actor was particularly vocal about the physical discomfort associated with intimacy on set. Adeoluwa described the experience as inherently "weird," specifically citing the invasion of personal space and the unhygienic nature of exchanging saliva with colleagues. He admitted that despite his frequent roles in romantic dramas, he has never had what he would consider a "good" or pleasant onscreen kiss. The clinical environment of a film set, according to Adeoluwa, strips away any possibility of genuine enjoyment, leaving only a professional task to be completed.

Professionalism Under Pressure

Highlighting the grueling nature of production schedules, Adeoluwa shared that he once had to kiss four different actresses in a single day for a project. He used this example to illustrate the level of discipline required in the industry, explaining that performers are often exhausted and focused solely on the "story" rather than the person they are paired with. He argued that instead of being judged or misunderstood by viewers, actors who navigate these uncomfortable requirements deserve commendation for their dedication to their craft.