"I Dream of Playing an Action Heroine Character" Bayray Mcnwizu

The actress revealed the role she will love to play someday (take note producers), speaks on nudity in the industry, crush on set and other interesting topics.

Bayray is popular for movies like 'Lies Men Tell', 'Emerald', Echoes', A Long Night, Shuga (Radio) and other interesting films.

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Who is Bayray Mcnwizu?

Bayray Mcnwizu is an actress, TV presenter, a lovely person to be with, Bayray is so many things, down to earth, fun loving and she loves what she does.

What was it Like Growing Up?

It was fun growing up, I grew up in a relatively free environment where we were allowed to explore our talents and gifts. My mother was quite adamant, she wanted us to focus on education, she was a barrister and my dad was an Engineer.

How Did the Journey into Nollywood Begin?

Officially, it started with AMBO, before then I was trying to break into the industry. I had gone for several auditions and most of them were fake, I actually lost a lot of money. I heard about AMBO and I kept thinking "it looks really very cool and original".

A friend of mine brought the form to me and she was like "you have to do this", I filled the form, and the rest is histroy.

How has the Journey been so far?

There has been highs, there has been lows, there are challenges that I will continue to face as an actress, but it has been awesome. I have met lots of film makers, directors, producers who have been welcoming, who have mentored me and supported the brand. It has been worth the while, I am grateful to God, my family and my fans.

If You Were Given an Opportunity to Change Something in Nollywood, What Would That Be?

It would be Piracy, the last straw was when I got this BC from my boss Tunde Kelani, it was an outcry. I could imagine the pain he went through as a filmmaker who was hoping for profit and somebody somewhere clones this thing and eats deep into your pocket.

I know we cannot totally eradicate it, but I believe we can do something about it.

What are Your Views on Nudity in Nollywood?

In recent times, it has been very prevalent, but for every Industry that wants to break new grounds, there will be challenges to face, and they would be things that would not be accepted.

I think nudity is one of them, our culture is not the typical one that allows for women to expose their body, especially when the reasons are so flippant.

I do believe that with time passing, those who are not doing a good job will be streamlined.

On Funny Movie Titles.

Honestly, I was surprised when I saw the return of the Chibok Girls with two famous actors on the cover and I thought "why make light of the situation". As I said, at the end of the day, those who are not serious will be swept away.

What Character Do You Often Imagine to Play?

It will so definitely be an action hero character or a superhero. For me, it has been a dream for me, and I do believe that it can happen. Nigeria has merged with the world, it is now a global film village, so it can happen.

It might be an African Superhero, it might be an international one, but it is something I have always wanted to do, so make it happen guys.

What Character Would You Not be Caught Dead Playing?

Mmmm. I really can't complain, because I am an actor, I am a performer. I may not totally feel comfortable in all roles, but I love challenges. I often research, I often watch other actors both local and International do their stuff, so I believe that I can do anything.

I didn't think I could play a mad woman or distorted woman, but I have seen Russell Crow do that. I think for me, it is no longer "I cannot do this", it is now a challenge and I love challenges.

Who Inspires You in the Industry?

I am inspired by Kunle Afolayan, I absolutely admire Madam Taiwo Ajayi-Lycett , I admire her persistent and strength at her beloved stage.

I love Genevieve Nnaji, I admire her resilient and the fact that she is still relevant after so many years. I admire Rita Dominic and Omotola too.

What Attracts You to a Script?

The story line is very very important. Sometimes I look at the time, time slated to shot, and if it is not enough to get into character, I may not be able to go for the character.

I remember the film that I did "My Rich Boyfriend" where I had to play an Igbotic lady, she had to form that she was tush, she had to lie always, and for me it's not something that I am. There is this other one, "The Visit" where I was very frigid.

These are real characters in real life, for me we are telling a story, it is a challenge and I love challenges.

Have You Ever on a Co-Star on Set?

Not really, but to be honest, there is a thin life between acting and real life, and if you let yourself slip then it is possible.

There are times that I have been so in love with my husband or boyfriend and when they say "Cut" we are still engrossed and everyone is like "Ah", but we are just enjoying the zone and nothing else.

On Relationship Status

Bayray is not married, Bayray is not single, Bayray is seeing someone, and it is a lovely place to be.

What do you have to say about Genevieve's alleged statement on Nollywood being mediocre and bland?

I think that in every film industry around the world, we have those who are at the top making good quality movies and those at the bottom making low budget films, it is the same in Nigeria.

On Upcoming Project.

I have upcoming films that I will be shooting with fellow Nigerians, and also outside Nigeria. It has been a very very busy year for me - Thank God.

Watch Interview on Pulse TV.