Liberian-born actor, director and producer Eddie Watson has reflected on his remarkable journey from selling DVDs on the streets to becoming one of the most recognisable faces in African cinema.
The filmmaker revealed that acting was never part of his original plans until a chance encounter in Ghana changed the course of his life.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with journalist Olaitan Ganiu, Watson recounted how he was spotted walking through the streets of Teshie, Ghana, by filmmaker Kingsley Obed, who believed he had the right look for the screen.
At the time, Watson said he was focused on surviving through business ventures, including selling and renting DVDs, with little interest in entertainment.
However, after relocating from Liberia to Ghana in 2008, he was invited to feature in a commercial for a blood tonic company, marking his first experience in front of the camera.
“He saw me walking on the streets and thought I had what he wanted,” Watson recalled.
Although he initially resisted acting due to his lack of professional training, fate eventually led him back to the industry. In 2010, a friend recommended him for a minor role in the movie Labour of Love, which became his acting debut.
Since then, Watson has built a successful career across Nollywood and other African film industries, starring in romantic dramas, producing films and directing projects that focus on African storytelling.
Reflecting on his identity, the actor described himself as “a true African man,” noting that while he was born and raised in Liberia, he also has Nigerian roots through his father from Akwa Ibom State.
Watson praised Nollywood’s growth and global influence, attributing its success to the hardworking and resilient spirit of Nigerians.
“The Nigerian goal-getting, hustling spirit sets the tone for everything,” he said. “Nollywood’s strength lies in its incredible energy, resilience and ability to get things done efficiently.”
According to him, African cinema continues to evolve rapidly, with filmmakers across the continent pushing for better storytelling and higher production quality.
Despite studying Economics at university, Watson said the discipline helped shape his mindset, teaching him resilience, discipline and critical thinking skills that have proven valuable in filmmaking.
While he has worked as an actor, writer, producer and director, the 45-year-old said directing remains the most demanding yet fulfilling aspect of his career.
“As a director, you’re everyone and everything,” he explained. “You’re every character, every shot, every sound and every mood. It’s invigorating and beautiful.”
On his personal life, Watson disclosed that his marriage, which began in 2013, experienced difficulties years later.
“I’ve been married since 2013, but we separated in 2024 and have been in the process of finalising our divorce since then,” he said.
Addressing his popularity among female fans, the actor stressed the importance of maintaining integrity and humility despite fame.
Looking ahead, Watson said his focus is now more on directing than acting, with plans to create deeper African stories capable of competing globally.
“I want to tell stories my way — more deeply rooted African stories, more thought-provoking stories with morals,” he said.
Beyond entertainment, the filmmaker said he hopes to use his platform to improve lives and create opportunities for Africans.
“I want to be remembered as someone who didn’t just entertain people, but someone who helped Africans have better lives and more opportunities,” he added.
