MOVIE

Born April 4, 1965, in New York City, Robert Downey Jr. is one of Hollywood’s most compelling comeback stories. Best known for his iconic portrayal of Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, he redefined what it means to embody a superhero by balancing the scales of genius, wit, and heart. Before Marvel, Downey was already an actor of depth and range. His performance in Chaplin (1992), where he portrayed silent film legend Charlie Chaplin, earned him an Academy Award nomination and a BAFTA win for Best Actor. He went on to shine in Sherlock Holmes, Tropic Thunder, and Oppenheimer, amongst others. Despite early-career struggles with addiction and multiple arrests in the 1990s, Downey rebuilt both his life and legacy through perseverance and self-discipline. By 2012, he had become the world’s highest-paid actor according to Forbes, a title he held for three consecutive years.

Born: October 20, 1979 Full Name: John Burke Krasinski Specialty: Actor • Director • Writer • Producer Nationality: American From lovable paper salesman to action hero and acclaimed filmmaker, John Krasinski has carved an extraordinary path through Hollywood. He first gained global recognition as Jim Halpert on NBC’s beloved sitcom The Office (2005–2013), a role that showcased his effortless comedic timing and natural charm. In 2018, Krasinski reinvented himself with the groundbreaking thriller A Quiet Place, which he co-wrote, directed, and starred in alongside his wife, Emily Blunt. The film’s near-silent tension and emotional depth redefined modern horror, earning widespread critical acclaim and a spot on Time’s 100 Most Influential People list. Following its success, he returned with A Quiet Place Part II (2020), further cementing his reputation as a master storyteller and visionary filmmaker. Beyond his work in horror, Krasinski brought intensity and intelligence to the title role in Amazon’s action-thriller series Jack Ryan (2018–2023), and surprised fans with a memorable cameo as Reed Richards / Mister Fantastic in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022). Off-screen, he continues to explore creativity through production and writing while balancing life with his wife, Emily Blunt, and their two daughters.

Born October 12, 1968, Hugh Jackman is an Australian actor, singer, and producer celebrated for his versatility and magnetic screen presence. Best known for bringing Wolverine to life in the X-Men series, Jackman built his legacy on a mix of power, precision, and charisma, hereby redefining what it means to be an action hero with heart. But beyond the claws and grit, Jackman’s range runs deep. His emotional depth in Les Misérables, psychological nuance in The Prestige, intensity in Prisoners, and charm in The Greatest Showman have all proven one thing — he’s not confined to any box. His return to the role in Deadpool & Wolverine (2024) reignited global excitement, reminding fans just how enduring his appeal is. Over the years, Jackman has earned a reputation as one of Hollywood’s most dynamic performers. His accolades include a Primetime Emmy Award, a Grammy Award, and nominations for both the Academy Awards and BAFTAs. Each recognition reflects not just his talent, but his commitment to excellence — whether in film, theatre, or music. Outside acting, Jackman’s influence extends into philanthropy and leadership. He holds the title of Companion of the Order of Australia, one of the nation’s highest honors, awarded for his contribution to the arts and global humanitarian efforts.

Kehinde Bankole is an award-winning Nigerian actress, model, and television host, widely recognized for her remarkable versatility and commanding screen presence. She first gained public attention as a finalist in the 2003 Miss Commonwealth Nigeria beauty pageant and later in Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN), before making her acting debut in Wale Adenuga’s Super Story — a move that marked the beginning of a flourishing career in Nollywood. Over the years, Kehinde has built an impressive filmography, featuring in several acclaimed productions such as October 1 (directed by Kunle Afolayan), The Set Up, Prophetess, Dear Affy, Render to Caesar, Perfect Church, Two Brides and a Baby, and the critically lauded biopic Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, where she portrayed the iconic activist and matriarch. Her range extends beyond film to television, with standout performances in Desperate Housewives Africa (the African adaptation of the U.S. hit series) and the Netflix original thriller Blood Sisters, where she showcased her depth and emotional nuance. A multiple-award-winning actress, Kehinde has received several industry recognitions, including the Africa Movie Academy Award (AMAA) for Best Actress in a Leading Role and nominations from platforms such as Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).Beyond acting, she has made her mark as a TV host and media personality, notably anchoring the daytime talk show Soul Sisters and other television programs that highlight women’s voices and societal issues. Kehinde Bankole is celebrated not only for her artistic range but also for her ability to embody complex characters with authenticity and grace — cementing her reputation as one of Nollywood’s most respected and enduring talents.

Born in 1961, and having her 64th birthday today, September 29, Joke Silva Jacobs is a Nigerian actress, creative director and businesswoman. Married to veteran actor, Olu Jacobs with two children including Olusoji Jacobs and Olugbenga Jacobs, she first made it to limelight in 1998 with a major role in the British-Canadian film The Secret Laughter of Women. In 2006, she won “Best Actress in a Leading Role” at the 2nd Africa Movie Academy Awards for her performance in Women’s Cot, and “Best Actress in a Supporting Role” at the 4th Africa Movie Academy Awards in 2008 for her performance as a grandmother in White Waters. Other notable starrings include Chief Daddy 1 & 2, Elesin Oba, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti(2024) amongst others. Alongside her husband, she’s the co-founder of the Lufodo Group, a media corporation that specialises in film production and asset distribution and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts where she serves as Director of Studies. She is also the pioneer managing director of Malete Film Village, in association with Kwara State University.

Jason Statham (born July 26, 1967) is one of Britain’s most recognizable action stars, famed for his no-nonsense grit and electrifying screen presence. Before Hollywood came calling, he was a competitive diver—a discipline that gave him the physicality and precision he brings to his roles. Statham broke out in Guy Ritchie’s cult classic Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998) and quickly carved a niche as the go-to leading man for adrenaline-fueled films like The Transporter, Crank, The Expendables, the Fast & Furious franchise, and The Meg. What sets him apart isn’t just his knack for hard-hitting fight scenes and breakneck chases, but the fact that he performs many of his own stunts, earning him a reputation as the real deal in an industry built on make-believe. Off-screen, Statham shares his life with model and actress Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, with whom he has two children.