Actress Jackie Appiah embraces bold new role as drug baron in 'Everyone Loves Jenifa'

Actress Jackie Appiah has opened up about her latest role in the movie Everyone Loves Jenifa, currently showing at the Silverbird Cinemas in Accra. 

The actress portrayed a drug baron, a departure from her usual "lady in love" roles.  

The actress expressed excitement about the new challenge despite it being demanding. She noted that as an actor, adapting to roles was part of the job, which enabled her to play that role. 

“Every character is challenging, and so yes, it was challenging. But we executed it well by the grace of God, and yes, I am happy I took part in this project. I am an actress, and so any character that comes my way, I will play it,” she stated during an exclusive interview last Saturday. The interview took place at a ‘Meet and Greet’ session with some of the cast, part of the promotional activities following the film’s premiere.  

When asked about her first impression of her "drug baron" character, Jackie explained that the script was convincing. “It's not my first time playing a 'bad' character, but this is my first time playing this type of character as a drug baron. Funke was like, ‘Jackie, I want you to play something different. I want people to see you as they have never seen you before.’ So, I said, ‘Ok.’ Then, I read the script and I liked it, so I said, ‘Why not? I would like to be part of it.’ The script was nice and engaging,” she said.  

Jackie’s character, Bebe, is a calm, gorgeous woman who commands a dangerous league of drug dealers composed of ruthless and ambitious men who will not hesitate to eliminate anyone standing in their way. Bebe is feared by her subordinates, who recognise her go-getter attitude and lack of pity. For her, the price of failure is simple: death.  

Everyone Loves Jenifa explores the essence of morals, truth and the hypocrisy of modern-day luxurious lifestyles and failed leadership. The creative and humorous piece subtly critiques modern society's lack of honesty and the biases of the upper class, with an appreciable mix of romance. It also highlights the importance of women’s rights and underscores the dangers and repercussions of domestic violence against women.  

The movie features a stellar cast, including Prince David Osei, Anthony Wood, Patience Ozokwor, rapper Phalz, Harold Amenya and others. It boasts a healthy mix of Nigerian and Ghanaian talents, showcasing a vibrant display of cultures through language and fashion set in modern-day urban West Africa. The film was produced by Funke Akindele and Tunde Olaoye.