‘My Husband Would Beat Me Because I Refused To Stop Acting’ – Lanre Hassan Reveals Painful Past
Veteran Nollywood actress Lanre Hassan, popularly known as Iya Awero, has made a heart-wrenching revelation about her early days in the movie industry, disclosing that her late husband physically assaulted her because she refused to give up acting.
In a candid interview that has sparked emotional reactions across social media, the respected Yoruba actress opened up about the challenges she faced in balancing her passion for acting with her marital responsibilities. “My husband would beat me because I refused to stop acting,” she confessed. “He wanted me to leave the theatre world, but I just couldn’t let go of what I loved.”
Lanre Hassan, whose career spans decades and includes countless iconic roles in both Yoruba and English-language films, explained that acting was never just a hobby for her it was a calling. Despite the opposition from her husband, she stood her ground and continued to pursue her dreams, even in the face of domestic violence and societal pressure.
The actress shared that her refusal to back down eventually strained their relationship, but she had no regrets. “If I had stopped acting, I would not be who I am today,” she said. “It wasn’t easy, but I knew I had to keep going for the sake of my future and the legacy I wanted to leave.”
Her emotional story has touched many fans and colleagues, bringing attention once again to the struggles women in the entertainment industry face — from unsupportive partners to societal expectations that often demand they choose between their career and personal life.
Lanre Hassan’s courage and resilience have not gone unnoticed. Over the years, she has become a symbol of strength and excellence in Nollywood, inspiring a new generation of actresses to stay true to their passion no matter the odds.
As conversations about gender-based violence, emotional abuse, and women’s rights continue to grow louder in Nigeria, voices like Iya Awero’s are crucial in shedding light on the sacrifices and silent battles that shaped some of the industry’s most celebrated stars.
