In Kemi Adetiba’s Netflix hit To Kill A Monkey, Michael Ejoor takes centre stage as Inspector Onome — a role he describes as both “daunting and thrilling,” and one that has quickly become a career-defining moment.
This edition of Meet the Star, our special spotlight on Nollywood’s brightest talents, zooms in on Michael’s journey as he reflects on his character, the challenges of dual-layered performance, and why Inspector Onome feels like more than just another role on his resumé.
For Michael, To Kill A Monkey has been nothing short of transformative. While he has steadily built a name in Nollywood, this role pushed him into the limelight in a fresh way — with viral clips, sharp delivery, and a performance packed with conviction. Fans weren’t just watching; they felt the intensity.
“It was daunting ’cause I had to play someone in two different ways, but not reveal I was doing that,” Michael explained. “I wanted the audience to feel the same shock I felt when I first read the final episode.”
And it worked. His layered approach kept viewers hooked, culminating in the “Ewehh” moment that had audiences buzzing online.
From Grounded Roots to Breakout Stardom
Michael’s humility has also endeared him to fans. Rooted in lessons from his mother, he credits his upbringing for keeping him grounded through the whirlwind of fame. “Carrying shoulder up no go help anybody,” he laughed, noting how he feels destined for the Inspector Onome role, given that Onome literally means “My Own.”
On set, Michael found a new bond with Bimbo Akintola, who plays Inspector Mo. Their chemistry was so natural that even Kemi Adetiba pointed it out. “That scene cemented our friendship,” he recalled. “Till today, Bimbo and I are 5 & 6.”
Hidden Talents & New Directions
Though audiences have seen his acting range, Michael isn’t afraid to surprise. Beyond acting, he raps, sings, and even “speaks” sign language — a skill he picked up thanks to his mum’s church for people with disabilities.
But his Nollywood journey wasn’t always the plan. With a Management Science degree, a PGD in Accounting and Finance, and time at the London School of Economics, acting came unexpectedly at a low point in his life. “It found me when I needed saving,” he admitted, describing how it became both an escape and a purpose.
Looking Ahead
From working with veterans like Stella Damasus to dreaming of roles that challenge him emotionally — like playing a character who is deaf and mute navigating life and love — Michael is ready for more layered, complex performances.
He also shared a golden nugget from Kemi Adetiba that stuck with him: “All you need is one word to capture your character’s state of mind.” It’s now a tool he uses in every script.
And the journey doesn’t stop at acting. Michael is gearing up for a September cinema release, more YouTube projects, brand collaborations, and stepping into new roles as both host and director.
“God has been too good,” he said with gratitude.
