The Netflix young adult Nollywood series “Far From Home” stars Genoveva Umeh, Olumide Oworu, Elma Mbadiwe, Richard Mofe Damijo, Funke Akindele Bello, Chioma Akpotha, Bimbo Akintola, Femi Branch, and Ufuoma Mcdermott as Ishaya, a charismatic teen and gifted artist from a low-income family whose dreams suddenly appear within reach when Ishaya’s newfound position and ultimately the safety of his family are in danger due to a massive secret.
It tells the well-known tale of how opportunity is unequally distributed but talent is not. Ishaya illustrates all of these realms, each of which has a unique tale to tell.
Mike Afolarin discusses playing Ishaya and the lessons that viewers of Nollywood films can take from his character as they get ready to enter the suspenseful world of “Far From Home” and grip their seats.
Hello, Mike. We’ve heard you play Ishaya in “Far From Home,” the upcoming Netflix and Inkblot Productions young adult series. Congratulations are in order for Ishaya, the main character! Tell us how you got the job.
The audition was how I got the part. Kolade Shasi, a friend and colleague, deserves special recognition. In the casting room, I believe he mentioned my name. Soon after, he contacted me and requested my headshot. Then, due process prevailed, and GOD DID! after several auditions (self-tapes and physical),
What was it like to play the main character in a Netflix series? We imagine it must have been difficult. Tell us about your experience.
It was a lot of pressure because, first and foremost, I had to film this far away from home. My life was generally very hectic at the time. I had a good time despite the early call times and physically demanding scenes with multiple takes. I got to do what I love while working with some of my incredible friends, as well as the wonderful people at Inkblot and, of course, Netflix, which made the journey unforgettable. We had a great time creating this masterpiece because the entire cast and crew brought their A-game.
Without giving any spoilers, describe how Ishaya is similar to Mike. And, if you had the option, would you trade lives with Ishaya?
Ishaya, on the other hand, saw a lot of shege. He is very familiar with sapa, which Mike is not. Mike had a similar experience a few years ago, but not anymore. I literally traded my life for Ishaya’s for a few months, and I had a great time playing him. In fact, I’m eager to repeat the experience.
What was your favorite scene from “Far From Home” while you were on set as Ishaya?
Worked with my friends, the coolest people in the industry—both on and off screen—and OGs (legends and icons) in the industry like Funke Akindele, Bimbo Akintola, and RMD, whom I had watched on the screen since I was a kid, were some of the highlights of filming “Far From Home.” Every scene I’ve shared with them holds a special place in my heart. It felt like a turning point in my life and career.
Are we going to like or hate Ishaya? And why?
I believe you will either despise or adore him. It completely depends on your viewpoint. But I actually love him wholeheartedly.
What do you hope audiences take away from Ishaya and Far From Home?
Hopefully, it’s not the drugs… More seriously, I’d say, “Your dreams are valid.” Whatever your reality is, don’t lose sight of your goals. This has happened in my reality as well as in Ishaya’s. Ishaya wants you to concentrate on the focus.
What is a typical day in the life of Mike Afolarin?
When I’m not on set filming or shooting drone shots, my typical day consists of me at home learning, researching, and trying to get enough rest before returning to set.
What’s next from Mike Afolarin?
To be honest, I’m taking each day one step at a time. I will continue to push myself to do my best on every project I am a part of and to allow myself to be a vessel for each new character and story. I’m looking forward to writing a couple of stories as well, and I’m hoping that God’s grace will help me finish what I’ve started.
