Pa James says ‘Papa Ajasco’ earnings insufficient, urges actors to diversify income

Veteran Nigerian actor Kayode Olasehinde, widely known as Pa James in the long-running sitcom *Papa Ajasco and Company*, has opened up about the financial realities of working on the show and the need for alternative income streams.

In a recent interview with podcaster Lucky Udu, Olasehinde confirmed he still maintains a professional relationship with the show’s executive producer, Wale Adenuga. He credited the collaboration with significantly boosting his public profile and improving his earnings compared to his earlier work in Yoruba-language films.

According to the actor, the role brought him recognition and financial progress, including enabling him to purchase his first car. However, he noted that the production schedule has become irregular over time, with long gaps between filming periods.

Olasehinde explained that while episodes are sometimes shot in batches, there can be extended breaks—occasionally lasting up to two years—before production resumes. He said this inconsistency makes it difficult for actors to rely solely on the show for steady income.

He added that actors associated with the franchise face limitations when seeking other opportunities, particularly regarding the use of their on-screen personas, which are protected. While he can take on roles in other productions, he cannot appear as “Pa James” outside the official series.

Reflecting on pay progression, Olasehinde disclosed that he earned ₦2,500 per episode at the start of his tenure, compared to about ₦45,000 per episode currently, with roughly 10 episodes produced annually.

He advised fellow actors to develop side businesses or alternative income sources to remain financially stable between projects.

His remarks come shortly after fellow cast member Abiodun Ayoyinka, who plays the titular character, publicly raised concerns about financial hardship. Ayoyinka claimed that restrictions tied to the *Papa Ajasco* brand limit his ability to monetise the character independently and appealed for financial support.

In response, Adenuga said Ayoyinka is allowed to participate in advertising projects subject to approval from Wale Adenuga Productions. He dismissed the claims of hardship as exaggerated and suggested the actor’s statements misrepresented the situation.