24th June, 2013
NEHRU ODEH
Nigeria’s screen goddess, Omotola Jalade Ekeinde’s appearance on the world’s movie circuit takes shape as she makes her debut in a television drama series, Hit The Floor, in the United States today.
She will be starring alongside Hollywood A-list actor, Kimberly Elise and hip-hop superstar Akon.
Written and produced by James LaRosa, Hit The Floor is an American drama television series which follows Ahsha, a girl who joins the NBA cheerleading team the Los Angeles Devil Girls, unaware of the treacherous and tempting world that follows.
The story is built around the Los Angeles Devil Girls, a preeminent dance team in professional basketbal.The show will be on VH1, Monday night by 9pm.
Omotola, who was in April named one of the most influential people by Time Magazine made this known via her facebook page and twitter handle.
“Okay! Finally its on Monday,9pm! #HitTheFloor ! My U.S Tv Debut! God is good y’all,” she said, posting a stunning photograph she took with Elise on facebook.
No sooner had the multi- talented and multiple award winner broke the news than her colleagues, friends and fans across the world expressed their admiiration, support and joy.
@Tonya_King, who wrote the script for the drama series, tweeted from Los Angeles. United States: “SO thrilled/lucky 2 have THE Omotola in my episode!”
@SarahEFahey, also part of the movie’s production team. tweeted: “Can’t wait for the rest of you to see @Realomosexy in next weeks episode of @HitTheFloor.”
@Noah Tsika, Assistant Professor of Media Studies, tweeted from New York: “Don’t miss the great Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde (@Realomosexy) on @HitTheFloor, Monday, 9pm. The series is lucky to have her. #NollywoodIcon.”
When the news of the actress’ US TV debut broke last February, it was reported that the TV series would be known as Bounce.
“Bounce has all the elements we know VH1 viewers love; a world very much on the pop culture radar, an incredible cast and compelling, addictive storytelling. These are all set against a glamorous backdrop where amazing dance numbers organically break out as part of the story. We wanted to create a scripted series at VH1 in which music is a strong narrative force, and we have found that with Bounce,” said Jeff Olde, VH1′s Executive Vice President, Original Programming and Production, in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter at the time.
With this TV appearance, Omotola, who made her movie debut in 1996 with the box office hit, Mortal Inheritance, has nothing more to prove concerning her fast rising international status as an actress and musician.
Aside starriing in over 300 Nollywood movies, Omotola made her breakthrough on the international scene by starring on the award winning films, Ije and Ties That Bind.