Nollywood actress Biola Fowosere has spoken publicly for the first time in detail about the emotional toll of being abandoned by her ex-husband, revealing that the separation left her battling severe depression and hospitalized for 18 months.
In a tearful interview on African A-List on July 20, 2026, the Yoruba actress said her ex-husband walked out on her and their children without explanation seven years ago, and has had no contact with them since
“The only person I’d really want to ask a question is my ex-husband,” she said. “I’d really like to ask him what I did wrong because I did nothing before he left me and the kids. I want to ask what my children and I did to deserve what he did to us.
The actress said the aftermath of the separation triggered a mental health crisis that nearly destroyed her.ispent one year and six months in the hospital battling depression after he left. I almost ran mad,” Fowosere said.
She described the period as the darkest of her life, as she tried to cope with raising her children alone while dealing with emotional trauma and financial pressure.
Fowosere said she is sharing her story now to encourage other women going through similar situations not to suffer in silence, and to highlight the need for more support for single parents in the entertainment industry.
Born in Oyo State and raised in Ibadan, Biola Fowosere is a Yoruba Nollywood actress and producer. She rose to prominence after featuring in Iyawo Esu alongside veteran actor Femi Adebayo, a role that introduced her to a wider audience in the Yoruba movie circuit.
Over the years she has built a reputation for her versatility in action-packed and comedic roles. Some of her notable films include Abebi, Logun Ofe, Aromimawe, and Olori.
Beyond mainstream productions, Fowosere also runs her own YouTube channel, BiolafowosereTV, where she writes, produces, and releases content independently. Like many actors in the Yoruba film space, she has had to juggle acting with self-production to stay relevant in an industry with limited structural support
Fowosere’s account adds to a growing number of Nigerian female entertainers who have spoken out about domestic abandonment, mental health struggles, and the challenges of single parenthood.
The entertainment industry, particularly in the Yoruba sector, often demands long hours, irregular pay, and constant public visibility. For women raising children alone, the pressure is compounded by stigma and financial instability.
In past interviews, Fowosere has hinted at personal struggles, but this is the most detailed she has been. She appeared emotional throughout the conversation, at times breaking down as she spoke about her children and the years of silence from their father
While she did not share many details about her children’s ages or current situation, Fowosere posted a Christmas photo with them on social media in recent years, showing that she has continued to prioritize them despite the challenges.
She said her focus now is on healing, work, and giving her children the stability she didn’t have during her breakdown.l’m still standing,” she said. “For my children, I had to get up. But it wasn’t easy. And I don’t think any woman should go through what I went through alone.
Fowosere’s decision to speak openly about her 18-month hospitalization is significant in an industry where mental health is still rarely discussed. Depression, anxiety, and burnout are common among creatives, but few speak about treatment or recovery publicly due to fear of stigma.
Her story highlights a broader issue: the lack of support systems for entertainers dealing with personal crises. Unlike in other industries, there are few unions, insurance schemes, or welfare structures for actors working independently, especially in regional film markets.
Advocates say more needs to be done to create safe spaces for artists to seek help without it affecting their careers
Today, Fowosere says she is focused on her work and her children. She continues to act and produce content for her YouTube channel, and remains active in the Yoruba movie community.
When asked if she hopes to reconcile with her ex-husband, she said she no longer expects it. What she wants instead is answers, and peace.
“I just want to know why,” she said. “Why did he leave like that? Why did he disappear from his children’s lives? But I’ve also learned to move on. I can’t wait forever.”
Her interview has since sparked conversations online, with many fans and colleagues expressing support and calling for more empathy toward women dealing with abandonment and mental health challenges.
