Debonair comedian Abegunde Olamilekan popularly known in the Nigerian entertainment industry as Dr. Smile is a multi-award-winning comedian who has raised the bar when it comes to the art of comedy and emceeing. A comedian, actor, TV presenter and emcee, Dr. Smile has carved a niche for himself with his top-notch act in the entertainment space. A Linguistic graduate from the University of Ibadan who came to Abeokuta to serve his motherland for his NYSC and fell in love with the rock city. He has since become one of the most sought after in the comedy business. In this exclusive interview with ACADA Magazine, he let us into his world and discussed his journey into the entertainment world.
How did you get into the comedy business?
Right from time, I am a very naughty kind of person who causes a lot of trouble with my funny behaviour. I am very lively and fun to be with so I guess that really made people find me funny. Once, my sister was celebrating her birthday and there was no compere to handle the event. A friend who saw me as comical said I should be the anchor of the event. My career started that day on the 23rd of April, 2004.
How long has Dr Smile been doing comedy?
Professionally and to be accurate, I will say I have spent close to 20 years. In these 20 years I have had various great comedy gigs and I’ve hosted and performed at various corporate events for top organisations and prominent personalities. I know many people will be surprised by that. It’s not been easy coming but thank God for His grace.
What are the challenges you faced building your brand?
Acceptance is the major challenge I faced, once I was able to crack that nut and pass that level then I started making real money off my art.
What makes a good comedian?
A good comedian can take an ordinary thing and find the casual humor in it, nothing has to be exaggerated beyond actual real-life experience, and it is funny. Maybe it is something true that is not common knowledge, so you learn something in the midst of laughing about it. And a great comedian can bomb and come back the next night for more.
Different types of humor appeal to different segments of the audience, and what works for one brand may not work for another. You need to understand your target audience’s demographics, psychographics, and cultural backgrounds, and tailor your comedy style accordingly. For example, if your audience is young and tech-savvy, you may want to use memes, references, and sarcasm in your comedy. If your audience is more conservative and traditional, you may want to use subtler and gentle humor.
What’s your take about the current state of comedy in Nigeria?
Comedy is now the 3rd largest entertainment industry in Nigeria (after Nollywood and Music), we are still growing and expanding. It’s a thing of joy to see the industry grow this fast and also being a key player in my own state and country at large.
What was your biggest moment and saddest moment as a comedian?
One day, I was already set to perform at a very big event when I got a call that my very dear brother who has been my number one supporter and mentor had been shot dead. The news weighed me down. I had to look up to God and mount that stage. As God would have it, that night, I had one of the greatest performances of my career so far. God took control and the crowd got larger. The name Dr Smile became the talk of the town. I was also once told I could never succeed as a comedian in Abeokuta and I had to sell my car to stage my first comedy show and after the show, which was a success, I didn’t have any means of transportation for quite a while before God answered me.
How do you stay off controversies and scandals?
I simply mind my business and don’t unnecessarily expose myself to all those social media shenanigans.
What’s your take on social media and its dramas?
People are free to do whatever they like, it is their lives, and they can do whatever pleases them. In my own case, social media is my marketplace. Nothing personal can be found on my page.
Can you describe your style?
Mostly, I call myself realistic and simple.
What’s your favourite fashion item or accessory?
I’m a lover of good Wristwatches.
When not working, how do you unwind?
I watch movies. I love all kinds of movie from Hollywood, Nollywood, Bollywood, Yorubawood even Plywood… lol! as far as it’s a movie, I watch. Then I also enjoy quality time with family when the opportunity presents itself cos in the next minute I can be away for four days.
Aside from comedy do you have any other business?
On a lighter note, Yes, I’m into mind-my business which is more of a business also. I manage a production company called MONGUDU AFRICA which basically are into production of shows, concerts, festivals and seminars.
What inspires you?
For me, inspiration is from God Almighty. It comes from anything around me. It could even come when I am even going through a bad or good experience. I get inspired by people, activities, happenings, personal experiences and also books. I am exposed to people too and I get inspired. I also listen to jokes by other comedians.
What has comedy taught you?
Comedy taught me that despite the fact that you make people happy does not guarantee people’s love for you. I also learnt that your joy and happiness does not matter when you have been paid to do your job. Client satisfaction comes first.
How do you balance work and family time?
Like every other profession, we can’t work 24hours, so the little time we have or when not working the focus should be on the family.
Do you think there is enough support for the comedy business in Nigeria, especially from the corporate bodies?
There’s support everywhere only that some are not trained to see it. Corporate bodies will not come if you are not valuable. Most importantly, what can you offer and how well can you represent their brands? These are important factors to be considered. If you work on your brand they will definitely support you.
What’s your take about comedians recycling jokes?
There is nothing bad as far as the audience are not the same all the time,
creatives are not God. How do you expect a Comedian to just use a joke once and you expect a 2face to still be singing African Queen after 20 years. It’s not easy to create a joke.
What legacy are you planning to leave as a comedian?
A comedian who uses his platform to build younger ones and also a great and successful player worthy of emulation.
What can you describe as perks of being a comedian?
Being a reason people laugh is enough for me.
Your advice for younger comedians and anyone who wants to take comedy up as a career.
One to be authentic and original. You need to show your brand personality, voice, and values, and avoid copying or imitating others. You also need to create your own jokes, stories, and characters, and avoid using clichés, stereotypes. Two, you need to be respectful and responsible with your comedy content, and avoid using humor that is insensitive, inappropriate, or harmful to others. You need to consider the potential impact and consequences of your comedy content, and avoid topics that are controversial, divisive, or taboo. Thirdly, pray and pray.
Any last words?
Remember, nothing lasts forever. When you are shining, invest cos you can’t be the champion forever.
