
Efa Iwara on Showmax's Princess on a Hill
Princess on a Hill offers a fresh and exciting look at the African corporate world. This Showmax Original dives into the rarely explored drama of office politics, power struggles, and backroom deals, bringing a side of Nollywood we don’t often see. It’s a story packed with intrigue and ambition that feels right at home in Nigeria—and relatable around the globe.
At the heart of the story is Ozzy, played by the talented Efa Iwara, a pivotal character in the undercurrents of Lawson Group. Ozzy’s charm and strategic genius make him central to the brewing power tussle between Zara (Onyinye Odokoro) and Tolani Ivy Baker (Mimi Chaka). Their quest for influence sees Ozzy wielding the proverbial "magic wand" in this high-stakes corporate chess game.
Watch the trailer for Princess on a Hill
Efa Iwara shares insights about his character and the making of Princess on a Hill.
Tell us about your character.
Ozzy is a very nice, delectable gentleman—demure, homely, loveable, kind, and sweet. Anything else you hear about him, don’t believe it! He’s a great guy.
What attracted you to the character?
What drew me in was the element of corporate espionage. It’s a genre rarely explored in Nigeria, and that intrigued me. Plus, the exceptional talent on the project, the production team, and, of course, Showmax made it a no-brainer.
What was most challenging about playing your character?

There were a few challenges! One was trimming my beard because they said no office worker would look like me. I also had to adjust my haircut. Beyond the physical transformation, I worked closely with the director and producer to craft Ozzy’s persona, ensuring he felt authentic and layered.
What are the relatable themes the audience can look forward to?
First, the central “grass to grace” theme resonates deeply—everyone dreams of success and growth. Second, the series highlights that not everything is as it seems, adding layers of intrigue. Lastly, it teaches the importance of following your heart.
Can you describe Princess on a Hill in one word?
“Prism.” It reflects the different levels of power, control, and hierarchy—from the bosses to the underdogs, and Ozzy is somewhere in between.
In what way is your character important to the progression of the story?
Ozzy is integral to the story as he’s closely connected to our Princess and her quest for growth. But here’s the twist—she may also be pivotal to his development. You’ll have to watch to see how!
What can you say about the love triangle between Ozzy, Zara, and Tolani?
I thought one person would win, but it turns out, the outcome is not what you’d expect. So, I wouldn’t call it a love triangle—it’s more a triangle of trust and mistrust.
What about Princess on a Hill excited you the most?
The standout acting performances, the compelling story, and the celebration of African excellence really excited me.
What was it like preparing for your intimate scenes?
It’s all about professionalism. People assume intimate scenes are fun, but they’re just part of the work. You have to understand your boundaries and execute the scenes convincingly.
Watch the full interview here
More like this

Art, money and power: a blueprint for The Brutalist
Writer-director Brady Corbet, actor Adrien Brody and the production team behind The Brutalist tease out the tense relationship between art, money and power.

The Brutalist (2024)
Adrien Brody delivers an Oscar-winning performance in this period drama about a visionary architect who meets a wealthy client who changes his life.

17 medical dramas to stream in an entertainment emergency
From New Amsterdam to The Good Doctor to House, these compelling medical shows are all streaming on Showmax.

Chicago Med S6-10
Another compelling instalment of the pulse-pounding medical drama about the courageous team of doctors at a trauma centre in Chicago.

Love Island USA S6-7
The American version of the hit show moves the action to Las Vegas, but the premise remains: the most beloved couple will sashay away with $100 000.

BBNaija S10: From ships to silent beef, the arcs driving Biggie’s House this season
Five storylines keeping BBNaija S10 afloat for newcomers to follow. Catch all these moments from weeks 1–4 on Showmax, and stream the show 24/7.

Ten Pound Poms S2
In post-war Britain, a group of families resettle in Australia, promised a life of plenty - but find it more challenging than they ever expected.

Kate and Annie take charge in Ten Pound Poms Season 2
Michelle Keegan (Kate) and Faye Marsay (Annie) take us back to Australia in 1957 as Annie starts a bikini revolution, and Kate lets her hair down.
BBNaija S10: A week of firsts
Meet the BBNaija S10 Housemates
More binge-worthy series to stream

Art, money and power: a blueprint for The Brutalist
Writer-director Brady Corbet, actor Adrien Brody and the production team behind The Brutalist tease out the tense relationship between art, money and power.

The Brutalist (2024)
Adrien Brody delivers an Oscar-winning performance in this period drama about a visionary architect who meets a wealthy client who changes his life.

The best Premier League signings of 2025's summer window
With clubs busier than ever in the transfer market, is it shaping up to be one of the toughest seasons in the Premier League?

Behind the crime tape with Dog Man
Dav Pilkey and the Dog Man movie team open their case files to talk about how kittens and friendship could cure the World’s Most Evilest Cat.
Latest Stories

The best Premier League signings of 2025's summer window

Xtra affordable entertainment: pay for Showmax with your MTN airtime

What to watch on Showmax in Nigeria in September 2025

Alexander Isak a great option for LFC's attack, say former Liverpool striker David Ngog

Kate and Annie take charge in Ten Pound Poms Season 2

Vilakazi's verdict: Sundowns to "edge it" in high-stakes MTN8 semi-final

Rivalries reignite in thrilling Premier League games on Showmax

5 patients you’ll meet in The Pitt Season 1
.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
Ilana Glazer delivers in Babes

5 new reality shows on Showmax in August

The Big 6ix on new Premier League season and their SA adventure

Will anyone stop the champs? Booth on Downs' quest for a 9th title

The curtain rises: Wembley Showdown - LFC vs Crystal Palace

Showmax Premier League weekly watchlist: 4-9 September 2025

Showmax PL kicks off football fiesta with MTN8 quarter-finals

Melissa Kape Saili tips Morocco to win WAFCON final

Showmax PL kicks off new football season with unmatched action

Ugochi Oparanozie backs Nigeria to overcome Banyana Banyana

Get Ready for the PL Summer Series – live on Showmax

Nthabeleng Modiko backs reigning champions for WAFCON glory

Everyone Else Burns and 8 more cult classics

Binge five of the 10 biggest Emmy nominees on Showmax

Dangerous minds in The Institute + 7 more superpowered series

Bringing Beetlejuice Beetlejuice back from the grave