I’m still bothered about rent, actor Femi Brainard reveals japa struggles

Veteran Nollywood actor Femi Brainard, known for his contributions to the Yoruba film industry, shared the challenges he faced as an immigrant in the United States in a candid conversation on the Teju Babyface podcast.

The 53-year-old actor revealed details of his journey, including taking on menial jobs like being a cab driver to make ends meet.

“I became a cab driver in America just to put food on the table. Whenever people see me, especially Nigerian passengers, they often stare at me in disbelief, wondering if I’m indeed the familiar star they recognize,” Brainard shared during the interview.

The actor highlighted the stark contrast between the recognition he received in Nigeria and the anonymity he faced in the U.S., saying, “America does not recognize your stardom, nor does it respect your celebrity.”

Brainard discussed a particularly challenging period when he was financially strained, expressing the pain of convincing his wife to move abroad with him, only to face difficulties. “At times it would be so hard; I no go get money for hand. That day I went to the parking lot of our apartment, I cried, na me bring this woman here. Yankee no know star o… I had to feed my family,” he emotionally revealed.

He recounted an incident where a Nigerian couple recognized him while he was driving for Uber. The husband, surprised, asked, ‘bros what are you doing here?’ Brainard’s response highlighted his struggle: “As difficult as Nigeria seems to be, I would rather be a prince and a celebrity in a system that is not working than come to this place and be a nobody. I am still bothered about rent.”

Despite facing hardship abroad, Brainard emphasized the importance of identity and the challenges of being unrecognized in a foreign land, expressing a longing for the recognition he enjoyed as a celebrity in Nigeria.