Joyce Kalu, a Nollywood star, film producer, and director, was born on September 25, 1970. She has played a vital role in the Nollywood Film Industry through her diverse talents.
FACTS ABOUT JOYCE KALU
- FULL NAME: Joyce Kalu
- DATE OF BIRTH: September 25, 1970
- STATE OF ORIGIN: Abia, Nigeria
- PLACE OF BIRTH: Ohafia, Abia, Nigeria
- NATIONALITY: Nigerian
- OCCUPATIONS: Actress, Film Producer
EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION
Joyce Kalu was born on September 25, 1970, in Ohafia, Abia State, located in Southeastern Nigeria, and she is the youngest of nine siblings.
She completed her primary and secondary education in Abia State before obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Lagos State University (LASU). She also holds a diploma in Computer Science.
CAREER
Kalu’s career in the entertainment industry began in 1999 when she joined the Actors Guild of Nigeria.
Her first role was in the film The Price, where she played the part of a wicked mother-in-law.
Throughout her career, she has appeared in over 150 Nollywood films, taking on a wide range of characters, including caring mothers, devoted wives, regal queens, evil witches, and respected pastors.
Some of her notable performances can be seen in films such as Take Me Home, Bound, Throne of Glory, The King and The Python, The Royal Hibiscus Hotel, and The Ghost and The Tout.
In addition to her acting, Kalu is involved in film production and direction, having worked on significant projects like The Last Supper, The Missing Crown, and The Unseen.
As an entrepreneur, she owns a fashion boutique, a beauty salon, and a catering service, showcasing her diverse talents.
Highly regarded in the Nollywood community, Kalu serves as a mentor, helping to nurture emerging talents in the industry.
Her talent has earned her numerous awards, including the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards for Best Actress in a Comedy in 2016, the Niger Delta Icon and Dynamic Awards for Best Actress of the Year in 2017, the City People Movie Awards for Best Supporting Actress of the Year in 2018, and the ZAFAA Global Awards for Best Actress in a Leading Role in 2019.
In recognition of her significant contributions to the Nigerian film industry, as well as her community and charitable work, Kalu was honored with the prestigious chieftaincy title of Apunawu I of the Ohafia Community in Abia State.
This title was granted to her by His Royal Paramount Ezieogo, Prof. U I.E. Imaga, along with the entire Ohafia monarchy, on January 1, 2016.
Her remarkable accomplishments were further celebrated when she was named the Most Influential Actress of the Year at the 2020 Niger Delta Icon and Dynamic Awards (NDID).
PERSONAL LIFE
She is the youngest of nine siblings. She is happily married and has three children.