Bob-Manuel Udokwu

Bob-Manuel Obidimma Udokwu is a prominent Nigerian actor, director, producer, and politician, widely regarded as one of the pioneers of the modern Nigerian film industry, known as Nollywood. He is celebrated for his extensive career, which spans several decades, and his transition into public service.Early Life and Education Bob-Manuel Udokwu was born on April 18, 1967, in Ogidi, Anambra State, Nigeria, to Mr. Geoffrey Nwafor Udokwu and Ezelagbo Udokwu, in Nkwelle-Ogidi. He pursued his higher education at the University of Port Harcourt. During his academic years, he was active in student politics, serving as the president of the Nigeria University Theater Arts Student Association from 1989 to 1990. He later earned a Master's degree in Political Science with a specialization in International Relations from the University of Lagos.Career Progression and Notable Works Udokwu began his acting career in the early 1990s. His breakthrough role came in 1992 when he starred as 'Mike' in the iconic Nollywood blockbuster, *Living in Bondage*, and its 1993 sequel, *Living in Bondage 2*. This film is often cited as the production that launched the modern Nollywood industry. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Udokwu appeared in numerous films, cementing his status as a leading man. Some of his notable works include *When the Sun Sets* (1993), *Rattlesnake* (1995), *Karishika* (1998), *Most Wanted 1&2* (1998), *Camouflage* (1999), *Executive Crime* (2000), *Evil Doers* (2002), *Games Women Play* (2005), and *Heaven after Hell* (2008). In 2012, he starred in *Adesuwa*. More recently, he was featured in *Living in Bondage: Breaking Free* (2019) and *Ugly Bird* (2024).Major Achievements and Current Status Bob-Manuel Udokwu has received significant recognition for his contributions to the arts. He was nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the 2013 Nollywood Movies Awards for his performance in *Adesuwa*. In 2014, he was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 10th Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA). Beyond acting and directing, Udokwu has ventured into politics and public service. He currently serves as a Senior Special Adviser in Anambra State on Art Entertainment. He is married to Cassandra Joseph, whom he met while they were both students at the University of Lagos. They married on February 19, 2000, and have two children, Elyon Chinaza and Marcus Garvey.