An ex-Big Brother Naija housemate, Cross Okonkwo, has said those who judge former contestants on the show are jealous.
He told Saturday Beats, “It is not just about me; it is about the whole BBN itself. I don’t like what they (members of the public) are doing to our ladies. I think the women are very fantastic in their own ways. They are business-driven and focused. I think it is because in our society, women are seen as ‘instruments’. If they show their bodies, men are likely to pay whatever they can to have such a person.
“Honestly, that is the world we are living in. Everyone should stop being judgmental and focus on their lives. People who do this are jealous and probably want it for themselves and they are not having it. Any of the female housemates that comes out of the house and tries to build their brand, and a man is ready to sponsor them or be part of their legacy, it is okay.”
He also admitted that he had been judged several times. He said, “Several times, I have been judged. I saw what was going on around and I felt it was very sad, because everyone assumes they have the right to judge everyone that went to the show.
“It is not easy for one to participate in the show and one is judged. When one goes out, one is still judged. We are also human beings with emotions and dreams. Why are we judged because we took part in a reality TV show? It is not fair, especially to the ladies.”
Speaking on the other things participating in the show had done for him aside from making him popular, Cross said, “Aside from being famous, I have learnt a lot. People treat me differently, and it has shown me how to be myself and control myself in certain environments. It has also helped me to relate with people. There are certain persons who would think one has changed because one is famous. Sometimes, it is those people who change their behaviour towards one. Also, aside from being famous, I have the self-confidence to push forward. I can be whatever I desire because I know myself better.”
He also stated that he had not joined Nollywood like some of his colleagues because he had a lot on his plate. He said, “The movie industry is very fantastic. However, I have a lot on my plate. I am actually a very good actor but I don’t have that patience to wait. Two people offered me two good movie roles but they said I had to go to Asaba (Delta State) and Enugu to stay there for a week or two to shoot the movies. I don’t think I can do that right now because I have a lot of things going on for me. Perhaps, in the future when I want to tell my story, I will definitely act.”
