Jaiye Kuti biography reveals details about the Nollywood actress’s age (55), husband Lanre Kuti, children, movies like Alagbede, net worth of $300,000, and remarkable career journey.

Who is Jaiye Kuti?

Jaiye Kuti is a renowned Nigerian actress, entrepreneur, and film producer who has become a household name in Nollywood, particularly in the Yoruba film sector. Born as Durojaiyeola Oluwakemi Oluwale, she has built an impressive career spanning over two decades in the Nigerian entertainment industry. As the founder and CEO of Jaylex Aesthetic Production, she has successfully worn multiple hats as both an actress and producer.

Her breakthrough came when she appeared in popular Nollywood productions, but it was her role in the film “Ewon Laafin” that catapulted her to stardom. Known for her versatility and ability to portray maternal characters with depth and authenticity, Jaiye has become one of the most respected figures in Nigerian cinema. Beyond her acting prowess, she has demonstrated remarkable business acumen by establishing herself as a successful film producer and entrepreneur.

What sets Jaiye apart is her dedication to telling authentic Nigerian stories, particularly those highlighting the struggles of ordinary people. Her recent cinema debut as a producer with “Alagbede” (Blacksmith) in 2024 showcased her commitment to quality productions. The film grossed over N103.7 million at the Nigerian box office, solidifying her position as a force to reckon with in Nollywood’s cinema landscape.

Her journey from acting in television series to becoming a box office producer represents the evolution of Nollywood and demonstrates how dedication, talent, and strategic thinking can lead to remarkable success in the entertainment industry.

Quick Facts About Jaiye Kuti

Full Name	Durojaiyeola Oluwakemi Oluwale (Kuti)
Stage Name	Jaiye Kuti
Date of Birth	July 10, 1969
Age	55 years old (as of 2025)
Place of Birth	Ilaro, Ogun State, Nigeria
State of Origin	Ogun State, Nigeria
Nationality	Nigerian
Occupation	Actress, Producer, Entrepreneur
Years Active	2002 – Present
Husband	Lanre Kuti
Children	2 (Mayowa Kuti and Anastasia Kuti)
Net Worth	Estimated $300,000
Company	Jaylex Aesthetic Production (CEO)
Religion	Christianity
Notable Movies	Alagbede, Ewon Laafin, The Grudge, Jaiyeola Ni Monje

Early Life and Family Background

Childhood and Origins

Jaiye Kuti was born on July 10, 1969, in Ilaro, located in Yewa South (formerly Egbado South) Local Government Area of Ogun State in southwestern Nigeria. Although born in Kano State, she hails from Yewa Ayetoro, Egbado in Ogun State. She is the daughter of the late Mr. Rufus Adisa Oluwale, who worked with NITEL (Nigerian Telecommunications Limited).

Growing up in a family that valued education and hard work, young Durojaiyeola was exposed to different parts of Nigeria due to her father’s job transfers. This early exposure to diverse Nigerian cultures would later prove invaluable in her acting career, helping her understand and portray various characters authentically.

Educational Journey

Jaiye began her elementary education at Sunshine Primary School but had to transfer to Temidire Primary School when her father was transferred to a different location by NITEL. This early experience of adapting to new environments shaped her resilience and flexibility, traits that would serve her well in the entertainment industry.

After completing her primary education, she proceeded to Ikorodu High School for her secondary education. Her academic journey continued at the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, in Ogun State, where she studied Secretarial Administration. Not satisfied with stopping there, she furthered her education at the prestigious University of Lagos (UNILAG), where she earned a bachelor’s degree in English.

Academic Honors

Demonstrating her commitment to continuous learning and personal development, Jaiye Kuti later received an honorary doctorate in Fine Arts from Prowess University in Delaware, United States. This recognition acknowledges her significant contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry and her impact on African cinema.

Career Journey: From TV Series to Cinema Success

Early Career Beginnings (2002-2013)

Jaiye Kuti’s professional acting career began in 2002 when she appeared in the television sitcom “Laff Patterns.” This debut marked the beginning of what would become a remarkable journey in Nollywood. Unlike many actresses who start with Yoruba films, Jaiye initially featured predominantly in English-language TV series.

During this early phase, she appeared in popular television series including “Spiders,” “Face to Face,” “One Love,” and “Everyday People.” These roles helped her develop her craft and gain recognition within the industry. Her performances in these TV series demonstrated her versatility and ability to connect with audiences, laying the foundation for her future success.

Despite starting with English productions, Jaiye found her true calling in Yoruba films, where she could express herself more naturally and connect with her cultural roots. This transition proved to be a pivotal decision in her career trajectory.

Finding Her Niche in Yoruba Cinema

Jaiye Kuti discovered her niche in Yoruba films, where she became particularly known for portraying maternal characters with depth and authenticity. She starred in numerous Yoruba movies including “Folajomi,” “Kayefi,” “Oluwo,” “Awon Aladun De,” and “Sade Ihoho.”

Her versatility was evident when she starred in “The Grudge” alongside Nollywood heavyweights like Iretiola Doyle, Richard Mofe-Damijo, and Odunlade Adekola. This film showcased her ability to hold her own among industry veterans and demonstrated her range as an actress. Her performance in “Ewon Laafin” brought her widespread recognition and established her as a leading figure in Yoruba cinema.

Transition to Film Production (2006-2014)

In 2006, Jaiye Kuti took a bold step by venturing into film production, founding Jaylex Aesthetic Production. This company specializes in television and film production, reflecting her desire to control her narrative and produce content that resonates with Nigerian audiences.

She made her debut as a producer with “Jaiyeola Ni Monje” in 2014, a film in which she also starred alongside notable actors including Pasuma, Fathia Balogun, Femi Adebayo, and Yinka Quadri. This project marked her successful transition from actress to producer-actress, demonstrating her multifaceted talents in the entertainment industry.

Establishing Production Excellence (2014-2023)

Following her production debut, Jaiye continued to produce quality films that garnered attention both domestically and internationally. In 2017, she premiered two significant films, “Oro Mi” (My Wealth) and “Olori Amolegebe” (Queen Amolege), in London and the United States on the same day. This international premiere showcased her growing influence and the global appeal of her productions.

“Oro Mi” was inspired by a real-life story shared with her by a woman, with the actual story accounting for 40% of the film’s plot. The movie tells the story of a mother with three children who become targets for murder, exploring themes of family, survival, and resilience.

Over the years, Jaiye has produced more than 12 films, including notable titles such as “Ewon Laafin,” “Itan Kokoro Ide,” and “Scarred.” Her film “Scarred” was even featured on Amazon Prime, demonstrating the quality and international appeal of her productions.

Cinema Breakthrough with Alagbede (2024)

Jaiye Kuti made her cinema debut as a producer with “Blacksmith: Alagbede” in 2024, joining the elite group of Nollywood actresses who have produced box office hits. The film premiered on April 19, 2024, and featured an impressive cast including Femi Adebayo, Kehinde Bankole, Gabriel Afolayan, Jide Kosoko, Fathia Balogun, Bimbo Oshin, and many other A-list actors.

“Alagbede” tells the story of a poor blacksmith who falls in love with a woman from a humble background. When his soon-to-be mother-in-law insists he must improve his financial status before they can marry, he resorts to money rituals, which bring wealth but also devastating complications. The film explores themes of love, class disparity, and the consequences of taking shortcuts to success.

The production cost over N100 million, representing a significant investment and risk for Jaiye. She revealed that the team spent 17 days on set, constantly worried about rainfall that could disrupt filming. The investment paid off as the film earned N11.3 million during its opening weekend and eventually grossed over N103.7 million, making it one of the highest-grossing Nollywood films of 2024.

The film received critical acclaim for its cinematography and costumes, with many comparing it to Mainframe’s “Oleku.” It was later released on Circuit TV in December 2024, making it accessible to a wider audience beyond the cinema.

Career Timeline & Major Milestones

Year	Milestone	Achievement
2002	Acting Debut	Featured in TV series “Laff Patterns”
2006	Founded Production Company	Established Jaylex Aesthetic Production
2014	Production Debut	Produced and starred in “Jaiyeola Ni Monje”
2015	Breakthrough Film	Starred in “Ewon Laafin” which brought her fame
2016	Ambassador Role	Appointed as ambassador at Lagos State Polytechnic
2016	Industry Recognition	Won City People Movie Special Recognition Award
2017	International Premiere	Premiered “Oro Mi” and “Olori Amolegebe” in London and USA
2019	Major Award	Won City People Entertainment Award for Yoruba Personality of the Year (Female)
2024	Cinema Debut	Premiered “Alagbede” which grossed over N103.7 million
2024	Continued Success	Released “Èwò (Forbidden)”

Personal Life: Marriage, Husband, and Children

Marriage to Lanre Kuti

Jaiye Kuti is married to Lanre Kuti, the CEO of C.Ray Company Limited. The couple got married in 2000 and celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary in 2024, a testament to their strong and enduring relationship. Their marriage has been characterized by mutual understanding, support, and respect, which has been crucial to Jaiye’s success in the entertainment industry.

In interviews, Jaiye has been vocal about her husband’s unwavering support for her career. When she decided to leave her paid employment to venture into film production, Lanre encouraged her, telling her she was finally on track to do what she was born to do. He recognized her talent and pushed her to pursue acting professionally.

Interestingly, Lanre has become known in some circles as “Jaiye Kuti’s husband,” a reversal of traditional expectations that he embraces with pride. Jaiye shared a humorous anecdote about her husband using her fame to skip long queues at the bank, demonstrating how her celebrity status has brought unexpected benefits to their family.

Her Children

Jaiye is a proud mother of two children. Her son, Mayowa Kuti, was born on August 30, 2001, making him 24 years old as of 2025. Her daughter, Anastasia Kuti, was born on September 9, 2009, and is currently 15 years old.

Balancing motherhood with a demanding career in entertainment has not been without challenges. Jaiye has spoken about the crucial role her mother played in helping her manage her family responsibilities, especially during long periods on movie sets that could last up to a month. She moved her mother in with her family to help care for the children while she was away working.

Her son Mayowa has shown interest in his mother’s career and has occasionally offered his perspective on industry happenings, demonstrating the close relationship they share.

The Pasuma Marriage Rumor

Following the release of photos showing Jaiye and popular Nigerian musician Wasiu Alabi Pasuma (also known as Odetola) in traditional wedding attire, rumors spread that the two were married. The speculation was fueled by their on-screen chemistry and the authenticity of the images.

However, Jaiye clarified that the photos were from a film scene where they acted as a couple. Despite her denial and explanation, some people continued to believe they were married, demonstrating how convincing her acting can be. This incident highlighted both the challenges and advantages of being a public figure in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

Family Support System

Jaiye attributes much of her success to the strong support system provided by her husband and mother. Her husband’s understanding nature and his ability to take care of the household when she’s unavailable have been instrumental in allowing her to pursue her career ambitions fully.

She has emphasized the importance of having a supportive partner in the entertainment industry, noting that without her husband’s encouragement and her mother’s help with childcare, achieving her current level of success would have been significantly more difficult.

Net Worth and Financial Success

Estimated Net Worth

Jaiye Kuti has an estimated net worth of approximately $300,000 (about N240 million as of 2025 exchange rates). This wealth has been accumulated through her diverse income streams in the entertainment industry, including acting fees, film production revenues, brand endorsements, and her business ventures.

Her successful cinema debut with “Alagbede,” which grossed over N103.7 million at the box office, represents a significant boost to her financial portfolio. Even after deducting the N100 million production cost and other expenses, the film’s success demonstrates her ability to make profitable investments in quality productions.

Business Ventures

Beyond acting and film production, Jaiye Kuti has diversified her income through various business ventures:

Jaylex Aesthetic Production: As CEO of her production company, she controls the creation and distribution of her films, allowing her to retain more profits from her projects.

Real Estate: Jaiye has invested in real estate, a smart financial decision that provides passive income and long-term wealth accumulation.

Clothing Line and Beauty Products: She has launched her own clothing line and beauty products, capitalizing on her celebrity status and understanding of her fan base’s preferences.

Brand Ambassadorships: Her status as an industry veteran has made her attractive to brands seeking authentic Nigerian influencers. She serves as a brand ambassador for various companies and influences social media marketing campaigns.

Lifestyle and Assets

While Jaiye maintains a relatively private life regarding her personal assets, it’s known that she owns property in Lagos, Nigeria, where she resides with her family. Her investment in her children’s education and her ability to fund major film productions like “Alagbede” indicate a comfortable financial position.

Her lifestyle reflects a balance between enjoying the fruits of her labor and reinvesting in her career and business ventures. She has been able to travel internationally for film premieres and work, indicating financial stability that allows for both professional and personal growth.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout her career, Jaiye Kuti has received numerous awards and recognitions that acknowledge her contributions to Nollywood:

City People Movie Special Recognition Award (2016): This award recognized her significant contributions to the Nigerian film industry and her growing influence in Nollywood.

Ambassador at Lagos State Polytechnic (2016): Appointed as an ambassador due to her exemplary career and positive influence on youth, this role acknowledged her as a role model beyond the entertainment industry.

City People Entertainment Award for Yoruba Personality of the Year (Female) (2019): This prestigious award recognized her as the leading female personality in Yoruba entertainment for that year, cementing her status as an industry leader.

Box Office Success: While not a traditional award, the commercial success of “Alagbede” in 2024, which became one of the highest-grossing Nigerian films of the year, represents industry and audience recognition of her work’s quality and appeal.

Honorary Doctorate in Fine Arts: Her honorary doctorate from Prowess University in Delaware, United States, represents international recognition of her contributions to arts and entertainment.

Major Movies and Notable Works

Television Series

• Laff Patterns (2002) – Her debut role
• Spiders – Popular TV series
• Face to Face – Drama series
• One Love – TV series
• Everyday People – TV series
• Tales of Eve: Caged (2014) – TV series

Notable Films as Actress

• Ewon Laafin (2015) – Breakthrough film that brought her fame
• The Grudge – Co-starred with Iretiola Doyle and Richard Mofe-Damijo
• Folajomi – Yoruba film
• Kayefi – Yoruba film
• Oluwo – Yoruba film
• Awon Aladun De – Yoruba film
• Sade Ihoho – Yoruba film
• Mofe Ni Mofe – Popular Yoruba film
• Si Gbogbo Okunrin – Yoruba film
• Ashewo Airport – Yoruba film
• Big Love (2023) – Recent production
• Èwò (Forbidden) (2025) – Latest film

Films as Producer and Actress

• Jaiyeola Ni Monje (2014) – Production debut
• Oro Mi (2017) – Premiered in London and USA
• Olori Amolegebe (2017) – Premiered in London and USA
• Ewon Laafin Itan Kokoro Ide – Production
• Scarred – Featured on Amazon Prime
• Blacksmith: Alagbede (2024) – Cinema debut, grossed over N103.7 million

Challenges and Controversies

Industry Challenges

Like many Nollywood actresses, Jaiye Kuti has faced her share of challenges in the entertainment industry. She has spoken about “the demon of acting,” referring to the false rumors and associations that come with being a public figure. People often claim relationships with her that don’t exist, and false stories circulate about her personal life.

However, she has developed resilience over the years, choosing not to let negative publicity weigh her down. As she puts it, using a Yoruba proverb, “eni to ma ga, ese e a gun” (the one who will be great must face challenges).

The Kissing Scene Controversy

In 2014, Jaiye made headlines when she stated it was impossible for her to have a wet kiss on screen. This stance reflected her personal values and boundaries in acting. Interestingly, in later interviews, she revealed that her husband actually encourages her to kiss properly in films when the role demands it, showing his professional understanding of her craft.

This evolution in her approach to her work demonstrates her growth as an actress and the mutual understanding between her and her husband regarding the demands of her profession.

Production Challenges

The production of “Alagbede” came with significant financial and logistical challenges. The film cost over N100 million to produce, putting tremendous financial pressure on Jaiye. The 17-day shoot was fraught with anxiety about potential rainfall that could disrupt production, and she revealed that they prayed every day that it wouldn’t rain until filming was complete.

Managing Public Expectations

As her fame has grown, so have public expectations and scrutiny. The Pasuma marriage rumor, though clarified, demonstrates how her personal life can become subject to speculation and misinterpretation. Navigating these challenges while maintaining her privacy and dignity has been an ongoing balancing act.

Influence and Legacy in Nollywood

Impact on Yoruba Cinema

Jaiye Kuti’s influence on Yoruba cinema cannot be overstated. She has helped elevate the quality and commercial viability of Yoruba-language films, proving that they can compete with English-language productions at the box office. Her success with “Alagbede” demonstrated that Yoruba films, when produced with high production values, can achieve significant commercial success.

Mentorship and Inspiration

Through her journey from television actress to cinema producer, Jaiye has become an inspiration for aspiring filmmakers, particularly women in Nollywood. She has shown that it’s possible to transition from acting to production successfully and that age is not a barrier to trying new things in the industry.

In interviews, she often shares insights about the industry, helping younger actors understand what it takes to succeed. Her emphasis on understanding your story, ensuring cinema-worthy production quality, and making strategic investments has provided valuable guidance to emerging filmmakers.

Breaking Stereotypes

Jaiye has challenged age-related stereotypes in Nollywood by making her cinema debut as a producer at 55 years old. At a time when many might consider slowing down, she took on her biggest professional challenge, investing over N100 million in a single production. Her success has encouraged other veteran actresses to consider similar ventures.

Contribution to Nigerian Stories

Through her films, Jaiye has consistently focused on telling authentic Nigerian stories that resonate with local audiences. Her stated desire to share the struggles of average artisans, as seen in “Alagbede,” demonstrates her commitment to representing various socioeconomic groups in Nigerian society.

Social Media Presence and Public Image

Jaiye Kuti maintains an active presence on social media platforms, particularly Instagram, where she connects with fans and promotes her work. Her social media strategy balances promotional content with glimpses into her personal life, maintaining a relatable yet professional image.

She uses her platform to:

• Promote her films and productions
• Share behind-the-scenes content from movie sets
• Celebrate family milestones
• Engage with fans and colleagues
• Support fellow actors and filmmakers

Her authenticity on social media has helped her build a loyal fan base that supports her projects and celebrates her successes. Unlike some celebrities who maintain a distant persona, Jaiye’s approachability has endeared her to many Nigerians.

Philanthropy and Social Responsibility

While specific details of charitable activities are not extensively publicized, Jaiye’s role as an ambassador at Lagos State Polytechnic demonstrates her commitment to giving back to society, particularly in education and youth development.

Her choice to tell stories that highlight the struggles of ordinary Nigerians, such as artisans in “Alagbede,” shows a social consciousness that extends beyond entertainment. By bringing attention to often-overlooked segments of society, she uses her platform for social awareness and advocacy.

Interesting Facts About Jaiye Kuti

Not Related to Fela Kuti: Despite sharing the Kuti surname, Jaiye is not related to the legendary Afrobeat musician Fela Kuti. She acquired the surname through marriage to Lanre Kuti.

Career Change at 33: Jaiye made her professional acting debut at 33 years old in 2002, proving that it’s never too late to pursue your passion.

24-Year Marriage: She has been married to the same man since 2000, a rarity in the Nigerian entertainment industry known for high-profile relationship challenges.

Honorary Doctorate: She holds an honorary doctorate in Fine Arts from an American university, adding academic recognition to her artistic achievements.

International Premieres: She premiered two films simultaneously in London and the United States in 2017, showcasing her international reach.

Husband’s Pride: Her husband proudly introduces himself as “Jaiye Kuti’s husband” and uses her celebrity status to his advantage, demonstrating their secure relationship.

Mother’s Support: Her mother lives with her family to help with childcare, highlighting the importance of extended family support in her success.

Real Estate Investor: Beyond entertainment, she has invested wisely in real estate for long-term financial security.

Crossover Actress: She successfully transitioned from English-language TV series to Yoruba films, demonstrating versatility.

Late Cinema Entry: She made her cinema debut as a producer at 55, joining younger colleagues in the competitive box office market.

Conclusion

Jaiye Kuti’s biography represents a compelling story of passion, perseverance, and professional evolution in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. From her debut in 2002 to her cinema success in 2024, she has consistently demonstrated the power of dedication and strategic career development.

Her journey from television actress to successful film producer showcases the possibilities available to those willing to take risks and invest in their dreams. The success of “Alagbede” at the box office, grossing over N103.7 million, proves that veteran actresses can compete successfully in the modern Nollywood landscape.

Beyond her professional achievements, Jaiye’s 24-year marriage and balanced family life demonstrate that it’s possible to maintain personal happiness while pursuing ambitious career goals. Her story provides inspiration not just for aspiring entertainers but for anyone seeking to reinvent themselves and achieve new heights in their chosen field.

As she continues to produce films and mentor the next generation of Nollywood talent, Jaiye Kuti’s legacy in Nigerian cinema grows stronger. Her commitment to quality productions, authentic storytelling, and professional excellence ensures that her influence will be felt in Nollywood for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How old is Jaiye Kuti? Jaiye Kuti is 55 years old, born on July 10, 1969.

Who is Jaiye Kuti’s husband? Jaiye Kuti is married to Lanre Kuti, the CEO of C.Ray Company Limited, since 2000.

How many children does Jaiye Kuti have? She has two children: a son named Mayowa Kuti (born August 30, 2001) and a daughter named Anastasia Kuti (born September 9, 2009).

What is Jaiye Kuti’s net worth? Jaiye Kuti’s estimated net worth is approximately $300,000 (about N240 million).

Is Jaiye Kuti related to Fela Kuti? No, Jaiye Kuti is not related to the legendary musician Fela Kuti; she acquired the Kuti surname through marriage.

What is Jaiye Kuti’s most successful movie? Her most commercially successful film is “Blacksmith: Alagbede” (2024), which grossed over N103.7 million at the Nigerian box office.

When did Jaiye Kuti start acting? She began her professional acting career in 2002 with the TV series “Laff Patterns.”

What company does Jaiye Kuti own? She is the founder and CEO of Jaylex Aesthetic Production, a film and television production company established in 2006.

Where is Jaiye Kuti from? She is from Ilaro in Yewa South Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria.

Did Jaiye Kuti marry Pasuma? No, the wedding photos with musician Pasuma were from a movie scene, not a real marriage; she is married to Lanre Kuti.