RMD: The Icon Who Brought Nollywood to the Global Stage at Silicon Valley African Film Festival (SVAFF) 2024

Among the luminaries present at the 2024 Silicon Valley African Film Festival (SVAFF), one figure towered above the rest not just in stature, but in the depth of his influence on African cinema: Richard Mofe-Damijo, affectionately known as RMD. He is more than just a veteran actor; he is a cinematic legend whose influence has indelibly shaped Nollywood and placed African cinema firmly on the global stage. His presence at the festival was more than a celebratory appearance; it was a homage to a legacy that continues to elevate African storytelling and amplify its voice worldwide.

RMD’s journey began humbly in Warri, Nigeria, where, as a young boy, he trekked just to find a place to watch television. As he shared during a fireside chat at the festival, this is where his passion for performance was first ignited. His TV debut in 1982 set the stage for a career that would span over 30 years, pushing the boundaries of what African cinema could be.

By the late 1980s, RMD had already become one of Nollywood’s most captivating actors, with unforgettable performances in films like Out of Bounds (1997), Hostages (1997), and Diamond Ring (1998). These films not only showcased his exceptional range but also underscored his ability to breathe life into characters that reflected the rich and complex realities of African life. His body of work helped transition Nollywood from its regional origins into an international phenomenon, earning it a global audience and, eventually, a seat at the table of global cinematic conversations. The Wedding Party (2016) and King of Boys (2018) cemented his reputation as a trailblazer who has brought African stories into the global spotlight.

Nollywood, which emerged in the early 1990s, now produces over 2,500 films annually, with an industry revenue exceeding $3.6 billion, making it the second-largest film industry in the world by output. It’s impossible to speak about Nollywood’s meteoric rise without mentioning icons like RMD, who have been instrumental in this transformation.

Beyond his roles, RMD’s voice is rich, resonant, and filled with the gravitas of a seasoned storyteller who commands any room he enters. It’s a voice that feels like the embodiment of African cinema itself, simultaneously wise and soulful. At SVAFF, his words echoed with the authority of someone who has lived and breathed the essence of storytelling. “Films are not just entertainment,” he said. “They are a mirror to our society, showcasing the struggles, dreams, and triumphs of our people.” It’s this deep understanding of storytelling’s role in shaping collective identity that has made RMD not just an actor but an ambassador of African narratives on the world stage.

In recent years, RMD has continued to push boundaries, as seen in his work on Castle & Castle and the critically acclaimed Black Book, where his performances have captivated audiences globally. His ability to straddle both mainstream and niche roles is a testament to his enduring versatility.

At SVAFF, there was an especially poignant moment when RMD paid tribute to his son, Tegha Mofe-Damijo, drawing a beautiful parallel between his own career and the new generation of filmmakers. Much like Denzel Washington’s family collaboration in The Equalizer 3, RMD sees this passing of the baton as a symbol of continuity in African storytelling across generations. The love and pride in his voice as he spoke of Tegha was palpable, underscoring that true legacy is not just about individual success but about inspiring and nurturing future storytellers.

Despite his iconic status, RMD remains deeply grounded. He often attributes his success to the cultural wealth of Africa, saying, “I grew up understanding that storytelling is a powerful tool. It fosters empathy and understanding across cultures.” His humility and grace are evident in every aspect of his life, from his mentorship of younger filmmakers to his impeccable fashion sense. Known for his timeless style, RMD’s fashion choices, much like his performances, tell stories of their own. His signature fragrance line, Timeless, reflects the lasting impact he has had on both film and fashion.

On opening night at SVAFF, RMD sported a look that paid homage to his roots — a design by Cameroonian designer Picasso, reminiscent of the Orobo traditional skirt worn by the Delta people of Nigeria, where RMD hails from. The ensemble was a blend of Southwestern elegance and cultural pride, a fitting tribute to the duality of tradition and modernity that he so effortlessly represents.

At the opening night of SVAFF 2024, Director Chike C. Nwoffiah had the audience roaring with laughter when he joked about the sheer influence of Richard Mofe-Damijo. “There’s a man so popular,” Chike quipped, “that even his initials are famous — RMD. In this whole world, when you hear RMD, it literally means Richard Mofe-Damijo and nothing else. Nothing says influence like that!” The crowd erupted, fully appreciating the humor and truth in his words, a testament to the actor’s far-reaching impact on African cinema and beyond.

For the closing night and his ICON award acceptance, RMD donned an exquisite creation by M&B Clothing, showcasing yet again his sophisticated style. It was a moment that encapsulated his journey — a celebration not just of his immense talent but of his role as a trailblazer for African cinema on the global stage.

In response to receiving this prestigious title, RMD expressed his gratitude, saying: “It’s an honor to be nominated by an organization that bridges two worlds I cherish: the innovation of Silicon Valley and the powerful storytelling of film, especially those narratives that highlight African experiences.”

SVAFF Director Chike C. Nwoffiah echoed this sentiment, adding, “RMD is the most versatile and influential Nigerian actor of our modern era. He is a gifted actor and a bankable talent who has delighted us with his powerful and charismatic stage and screen presence for over 30 years. We are thrilled to honor him at SVAFF 2024 for his inspiring work and his role in shaping Africa’s story with the global community.”

In his acceptance speech, RMD delivered a powerful reflection: “Every character I play carries a piece of our collective story.” It is this profound understanding of the power of representation that makes RMD a storyteller in the truest sense. His films transcend borders, connecting people across continents and proving that the human experience is universal. Through his work, he has helped shape how African stories are told, perceived, and cherished worldwide.

As the SVAFF honored RMD, it also paid tribute to the larger story of African cinema, one that is rich, resilient, and bursting with creativity. Richard Mofe-Damijo is not just an icon; he is a guiding light for African storytellers, past, present, and future. His contributions will echo across generations as he continues to inspire, mentor, and push the boundaries of what African cinema can achieve.

With new projects on the horizon, like Phoenix Fury, the world can only wait in anticipation for what this legend will deliver next.

Sahndra Fon Dufe Okeowo