Jide Kosoko: Veteran Nigerian Actor, Director, and Producer
Biography
Jide Kosoko (born January 12, 1954) is a veteran Nigerian actor, director, and producer. He was born into a royal family, earning him the traditional title of prince or “omoba” in Yoruba.
Early Life
Prince Jide Kosoko was born on January 12, 1954, in Lagos State, Nigeria, to the Kosoko royal family of Lagos Island.
Career
Prince Jide Kosoko studied business administration at Yaba College of Technology. He began his acting career in 1964 as a child actor in the television production “Makanjuola.” He has appeared in numerous Nollywood movies in both English and Yoruba languages.
Growing up in Ebute Metta, Jide Kosoko was inspired by the success of Hubert Ogunde to pursue acting. An acquaintance working with the Ifelodun traveling theatre troupe invited him to audition for a role in “Makanjuola,” where he was cast as Alabi. Kosoko continued acting, performing with the Awada Kerikeri group, which included Sunday Omobolanle, Lanre Hassan, and Oga Bello. He also had guest appearances on the TV show “New Masquerade.” In 1972, he formed his own theatre troupe.
Jide Kosoko has written and produced his own films and stage plays, including “Ogun Ahoyaya.” He gained prominence during the video film era, producing “Asiri n la” in 1992 and starring in “Asewo to re Mecca” and Tunde Kelani’s “Ti Oluwa Ni’Le Part 2.”
Endorsements
Prince Jide Kosoko is an ambassador for Chivita, a popular juice company. In 2016, he endorsed MeritAbode Limited, owners of Emerald Estate. He is also a brand ambassador for Western Lotto in Nigeria.
Awards and Nominations
In 2021, Jide Kosoko was nominated as the Outstanding Male Actor in “Love Castle” by the Abuja International Film Festival.
Personal Life
Prince Jide Kosoko was married to two wives, Karimat and Henrietta, and has children and grandchildren. He is the biological father of six children: Bidemi, Shola, Temilade, Tunji, Muyiwa, and Tunde Kosoko.
