Nollywood star and filmmaker Funke Akindele surprised audiences during a candid appearance on WithChude Live, where she opened up about her private struggle with grief and the healing power of therapy.

Known for her acclaimed “Jenifa” franchise and her directorial success with Battle on Buka Street, Akindele revealed that behind the scenes, the pressure to remain strong nearly overwhelmed her.

“I told myself, ‘I can’t continue like this. You need to speak,’” she admitted, explaining that therapy became a refuge offering her space to express truths she couldn’t share publicly.

She described the emotional toll of losing her mother, a pain she felt compelled to hide from fans and industry colleagues.

“Things I couldn’t tell people out there, I spoke to my therapist. And I’m better,” she said, sending a compelling message that seeking help is a form of strength," she said

According to Funke, seeking professional help is not weakness, but strength. Her openness challenges long-standing stigma around mental health, particularly in African societies where therapy remains taboo.

Midway through the interview, the conversation turned from personal healing to public ambition. Reflecting on her 2022 run as deputy governor candidate in Lagos State, Akindele boldly confirmed she is not done with politics.

“Ask me if I am going into politics again.Yes, I am. I ventured into politics to change lives. I will run for office again.”

Throughout the discussion, Akindele credited her success to faith, discipline, and an unwavering refusal to settle for less.

Her honesty not only shed light on the emotional weight carried by public figures, but also inspired a broader conversation on resilience, purpose, and the importance of mental health care.