Osas Ighodaro

Osas Ighodaro: Biography, Career, and Achievements Osas Ighodaro (born Osariemen Martha Elizabeth Ighodaro on October 26, 1990) is a Nigerian-American actress, host, producer, and humanitarian. She is renowned for her significant contributions to Nollywood, appearing in major films and television series, and for her work as a former Miss Black USA. Early Life and Education Ighodaro was born in the Bronx, New York, to Nigerian parents from Edo State. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Journalism and two minors in Entrepreneurship and Theater from Pennsylvania State University. Following her undergraduate studies, she earned a Master's degree in Fine Arts from the Actors Studio Drama School at Pace University. She began her career in the United States, where she was crowned Miss Black USA in 2010. Career Progression and Major Works After moving to Nigeria in 2012, Ighodaro quickly became a prominent figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry. Her career breakthrough came with the role of Adanna (Danni) on the popular soap opera, Tinsel, which ran on M-Net. Concurrently, she co-hosted Maltina Dance All reality show. Her film career includes appearances in critically acclaimed and commercially successful movies such as "Half of a Yellow Sun" (2013), "Gbomo Gbomo Express" (2015), and "The Department" (2015). A notable achievement came with her leading role in the 2016 film "Entreat," which garnered her wider recognition. In 2022, she starred in the film "Man of God." Major Achievements and Notable Works Osas Ighodaro has been recognized with multiple awards for her talent and influence. She won the Best TV Actress of the Year at the 2014 ELOY Awards for her role in Tinsel and the Best Actress in a Drama/TV Series at the 2022 Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCA) for "Rattlesnake: The Ahanna Story." Other notable film appearances include "The Bling Lagosians" (2019), "Mamba’s Diamond" (2021), and "Nneka The Pretty Serpent" (2020). Beyond acting, Ighodaro is the founder of the Joyful Joy Foundation, which is dedicated to raising awareness about malaria and providing health services in Nigeria. Current Status Osas Ighodaro remains an active and influential figure in the global entertainment sphere, splitting her time between Nigeria and the United States. She continues to feature in Nollywood productions and engages in various philanthropic activities through her foundation.