Nigerian comedian and filmmaker Bright Okpocha, known as Basketmouth, has advised upcoming talents about the dangers of pursuing fame through social media during his appearance on the CreativiTEA podcast.
“A lot of people have been blinded by the idea of being famous,” Basketmouth explained, Highlighting that many focus solely on the spotlight without understanding the journey to get there. “Undermining how one becomes famous- they don’t care,“What is your brand equity?” He questioned
He emphasised the temporary nature of viral fame, encouraging listeners to adopt a long-term perspective.
“Can you sustain what you have generated in two weeks for twenty years?
What do you have to sell?
What do you have to offer? What kind of brand do you want to represent ?”
Basketmouth addressed the trend of achieving ill fame through negative publicity, warning against following misguided examples.
“Bad publicity is bad publicity. People are blinded by the fact that it’s working for someone else. Don’t ever be deceived by what you see on social media,” he cautioned.
“Most of our people, it’s all fake, and it can create a false image. People may talk about you for a few weeks, but that’s it.”
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He also cautioned the upcoming creatives saying: “Don’t sell your brand for a two weeks of fame, you will give birth to children later.” He stressed the significance of authenticity and enduring value over temporary attention.
Reflecting on his own experiences, Basketmouth shared insights on overcoming personal challenges and remaining grounded.
“There were times I used to allow the physical, the disappointment drown me. The most important thing is joy in your heart. You have to feel joy inside- you can be in debt and still be in joy.”
The comedian also revealed a personal approach to maintaining positivity, “Sometimes, you just to have to pray to God specifically for joy, say, ‘God, I want to feel joy in my heart every day.’ When you radiate that positive energy, it comes.”
Basketmouth inspired his audience with a reminder of human potential: “We humans are like gods. That is why you can pray to a being that you cannot see, but you do it with faith. That faith you have is your superpower. God has given you that power—reach out to Him anytime. Once you wake up in the morning start feeling that joy, that peace of mind, start creating. Start thinking of what to do”
