Under the Influence star Bobby Ekpe on social media drama

Bobby Ekpe, known for his role in The Smart Money Woman and Smokescreen has opened up about his character as Ayo and his journey in the Showmax Original series Under the Influence, which tackles the complex themes of ambition, family expectations, and the pervasive influence of social media. 

In a recent conversation, Ekpe shed light on Ayo’s complex relationship with his brother Dami (Iremide Adeoye), his bond with Ivie (Eva Ibiam), and his views on social media validation.

Ayo’s frustration with Dami in Under the Influence is a major point of conflict in the series, and Ekpe believes it is entirely justified. As an older brother who invested in his sibling’s education, Ayo expects Dami to follow a more conventional career path. Instead, Dami returns with a third-class degree and suddenly declares his desire to become a social media influencer. 

“I sent you to school to study and find a reasonable job, and what do you do? You come back with a third-class degree and suddenly want to be a social media influencer?” Ekpe remarked, reflecting on how economic struggles often make such decisions hard to accept. 

He also added that if he were in Ayo’s position in real life, he would send Dami back to their mother’s house. 

Despite Ayo’s frustration in the series, his relationship with Ivie plays a crucial role in keeping him grounded. Ekpe believes that everyone needs a person in their life who serves as a voice of reason, and for Ayo, that person is Ivie. 

“We all need that one person in our lives - especially as guys - to talk sense into us when we’re not seeing things clearly. Like it or not, Ivie is Ayo’s mumu button. He listens to her a lot, and she helps him see things differently,” he explained. 

Social media validation is a major theme in Under the Influence, and while Ekpe isn’t someone who actively seeks online attention, he admitted to having a moment of vulnerability. 

“I’m not really big on social media - which is really weird - but I think the most extreme thing I’ve done is post pictures I wasn’t comfortable with. In 2020, I danced on TikTok! But don’t bother looking for that video!” 

His lighthearted response validates the pressure many people face in the digital age, where social media often dictates self-worth and public perception.

As Under the Influence continues to gain momentum, episodes 1-3 are now available to stream on Showmax, with new episodes released every Friday.

Watch the full interview below