Veteran Nollywood actor James Ikechukwu Esomugha, popularly known as Jim Iyke, has stirred controversy after declaring that the entertainment industry is largely structured around values that oppose God, claiming it primarily encourages what he described as satanism.

Speaking during an interview with media personality Joey Akan, the award-winning actor argued that the industry often encourages celebrities to seek admiration, personal glory and worship instead of directing honour to God.

He stated: “There is no bigger enabler than the entertainment industry. This is where demons live. The entertainment industry was totally created and orchestrated to extol the virtues of Satanism. What in the entertainment industry glorifies God unless you intentionally and consciously pursue Him? Is it the lifestyle we celebrate? What do we promote that is godly? I am not saying God does not exist in the entertainment industry. I am saying the entertainment industry is predominantly created for satanism.”

Jim Iyke explained that while creativity itself reflects God’s nature because human beings create through the gifts He has given them, the entertainment business often shifts attention from God to self. According to him, many entertainers become consumed by pride and the desire for recognition, placing themselves above others.

The actor admitted that he once fell into the same trap, recalling moments when fans screamed, cried and even fainted upon seeing him, leaving him convinced that he was more important than everyone else. He said his relationship with God later changed his perspective, helping him understand that true significance comes from knowing God rather than being idolised by people.

“As a creative, to create is to mimic God. But in the entertainment structure, many serve themselves. You cannot serve God and serve yourself. That is a conflict of interest. Serving self is satanism itself. When you exalt yourself to a god-like status and believe you should be worshipped or that the rules no longer apply to you, you are literally being worshipped. I have been there. I have seen people cry when I walked into a room, and I looked at them and thought I was special. No, you are not. Once you find your place with God, you will understand what is truly special. What is special is being able to find God in a place that is devoid of His presence,” he added.

Jim Iyke has, over the years, built a reputation as one of Nollywood’s most influential actors, often portraying tough and charismatic characters on screen. In recent years, however, he has spoken more openly about his spiritual journey, faith and personal transformation.

His latest remarks have generated widespread reactions on social media, with some agreeing that fame can easily fuel pride and self-worship, while others argue that the entertainment industry itself is not inherently evil but depends on the choices of those within it.

Watch the interview below:

“There is no bigger enabler than the entertainment industry. This is where demons live. Entertainment is totally created and orchestrated to extol the virtues of Satanism.”

— Jim Iyke. pic.twitter.com/U5wu8BRnK8

— Joey Akan (@JoeyAkan) July 7, 2026

Source: Yvonne Nyarko Agyemang