Segun Padonou Aina, widely known as Segun Arinze, is a celebrated Nigerian actor, singer, and voice-over artist born on September 24, 1965, in Anambra State, Nigeria. Renowned for his versatility and commanding presence, Arinze’s journey in the entertainment industry began in the early ’90s when he adopted his stage name while pursuing a music career. His foray into acting was fueled by his passion for the dramatic arts, which he studied at the University of Ife, despite his father’s initial disapproval.
Arinze shared that the name changes from Segun Aina to Segun Arinze came as a surprise during his music career, but it ultimately became his brand in the industry. He first gained widespread recognition for his role as Black Arrow in the 1996 classic film Silent Night, although this iconic character led to him being typecast as a “bad boy” in subsequent roles, affecting his mental health and prompting a two-year hiatus from acting.
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In addition to his acting prowess, Arinze has made significant contributions to voice-over work, a field he entered thanks to the encouragement of renowned broadcaster Soni Irabor. Recalling his first voice-over gig in 1987, he expressed his amazement at earning N1,000 for his efforts at a time when a colored television cost N500.
After navigating a turbulent first marriage to actress Anne Njemanze, which ended in a highly publicized divorce, Arinze found love again with Julie, a lawyer. They tied the knot in 2008, and he credits his faith and determination for leading him to her after a long period of searching for the right partner.
Today, Arinze is not just an actor but also an acting coach and mentor, working with the prestigious African International Film Festival to guide the next generation of filmmakers and actors. His resilience and dedication to his craft make him a beloved figure in Nollywood and beyond.
