In his latest interview delving into the intricacies of Nollywood’s evolution and the prevailing gender pay gap, renowned actor Norbert Young shed light on a rather intriguing phenomenon: why women tend to earn more in the Nigerian film industry than their male counterparts.
Young’s observations offer a fascinating glimpse into the dynamics shaping the industry’s economic landscape.
Young, a stalwart of the Nollywood scene, articulated his perspective with clarity and insight. He pointed out that one of the primary factors driving this discrepancy is the innate bargaining power that women possess.
According to him, the inherent appeal and allure of female talent command higher compensation.
“People love women and what they do because women attract more money,” Young stated emphatically.
However, he was quick to dispel any notion that this phenomenon stemmed from moral or ethical shortcomings, asserting, “And that doesn’t make them wayward. Women are more gifted than men.”
The actor’s assessment suggests that it’s not merely about gender, but also about the ability to negotiate effectively.
He acknowledged that while every actor has their own bargaining power, it appears that women, as a demographic, excel in leveraging their worth within the industry.
“Although every actor has their own bargaining power and maybe the women are bargaining better,” Young mused, hinting at the possibility of a skillful negotiation strategy among female performers.
Interestingly, Young emphasized that he doesn’t concern himself with the specifics of others’ remuneration packages, nor does he feel the need to disclose his own earnings.
He believes that the notion of ‘better pay’ is subjective and contingent upon individual priorities and circumstances.
“But I don’t go asking how much you are paid, and you don’t come asking about my pay,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of privacy and professionalism in financial matters within the industry.
“Better is relative, I think it all depends on priorities and what is better for you might not be better for me.”
Young’s insights offer a nuanced perspective on the complex interplay of gender, economics, and negotiation dynamics within Nollywood.
His commentary invites reflection on broader issues of equity and representation in the entertainment industry, while also highlighting the multifaceted nature of talent valuation and compensation.
As Nollywood continues to evolve, understanding and addressing such nuances will be crucial in fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment for all its stakeholders.
