Segun Arinze explains why veteran actors must remain teachable

Veteran actor Segun Arinze has stressed the importance of humility and continuous learning among experienced actors, saying years in the industry should not make them resistant to direction.

The actor, who has worked both in front of and behind the camera, said his experience as a director has made him a better actor because it helps him understand what a director is trying to achieve.

According to Arinze, veteran actors should be respected for their experience, but that respect should not prevent directors from giving them creative direction.

He advised directors to explain the reasons behind their instructions rather than resorting to shouting or intimidation, noting that good actors respond better to constructive direction.

Arinze also urged experienced actors to remain teachable, stressing that experience should foster humility rather than entitlement.

“Experience should give you humility, not entitlement,” he said.

The actor further advised actors, particularly those attending auditions, to prepare thoroughly by reading the material, understanding their characters, knowing their lines and listening to the director.

He noted that auditions should not be viewed as examinations to pass but as opportunities for actors to demonstrate what they can bring to a role.