
Watch the trailer for Nigerian Showmax series Under the Influence
Showmax has released the trailer for its upcoming Nigerian Original limited series, Under the Influence, premiering 24 January 2025 with new episodes released every Friday.
In Under the Influence, Dami, played by Iremide Adeoye (Wura), is a fresh university graduate who relocates to Lagos to live with his older brother, Ayo, portrayed by Bobby Ekpe (Love Unplanned). Struggling to adapt to his new environment and grappling with Ayo's high expectations, Dami vents his frustrations in an unfiltered social media rant. To his surprise, the post goes viral, catapulting him into the spotlight and earning him a growing online following. But as the allure of social media stardom intensifies, Dami finds himself torn between his newfound fame and the challenges of his strained family dynamics, leading to life-altering decisions.
The series presents a thought-provoking exploration of the digital age, diving deep into the struggles, ambitions, and relationships of young people in Nigeria today.
Watch the trailer for Under the Influence
Directed and written by UrbanGidi founder and creative director, Wande Thomas, (Lara of Lagos, Napped, and The Smart Money Woman 2), the series was created with a talented writing team that includes Isoken Ogiemwonyi (The Smart Money Woman), Nengi Diri, Mannie Oiseomaye and Nicole Chikwe. The cast also features exciting breakout stars Eva Ibiam, Dante Okere, Isioma Oke-Nwosu and Funmbi Oguntoye.
“Under The Influence captures the essence of what it means to be young and digitally connected in today’s world,” said Thomas. “It’s a story about balancing the rush of viral success with the importance of staying grounded and true to yourself, while also navigating relationships with family and friends.”
Under The Influence is a dynamic blend of humour and drama designed to reflect the lives of Nigerian Gen Zs with strong storytelling, relatable characters, and a true-to-life depiction of Lagos today.
Under the Influence premieres Friday, 24 January 2025 on Showmax.
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.

Rianza Snyman on Vaal Riviera and being a stay-at-home mom
Rianza, the matriarch of the Snymans, talks Vaal Riviera and her family. Catch the reality series now on Showmax, with new episodes every Tuesdays.
Amahle Khumalo talks about her role as Nosipho in Empini S2
Amahle Khumalo opens up about her breakthrough role as Nosipho in the Showmax Original Empini. Catch all the episodes now on Showmax.

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.

SA siblings’ debut film chosen for BFI London Film Festival
Finding Optel, co-directed by 20-something Mikayla and Jesse Brown, will make its international premiere at the BFI London Film Festival in October.

Simo Magwaza on his challenging role as De Klerk in Youngins
Veteran actor Simo Magwaza reflects on his role as the Olifants principal known as De Klerk in Youngins. Stream S3 from 19 September 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.
Laugh Africa Comedy Festival S2 on Showmax
Youngins S3, coming soon to Showmax
More Showmax Originals you'll love

Khaki Fever (2025)
A group of game rangers challenge each other to see who can bed the most tourists during the holiday season in this raunchy comedy.

Rianza Snyman on Vaal Riviera and being a stay-at-home mom
Rianza, the matriarch of the Snymans, talks Vaal Riviera and her family. Catch the reality series now on Showmax, with new episodes every Tuesdays.
Amahle Khumalo talks about her role as Nosipho in Empini S2
Amahle Khumalo opens up about her breakthrough role as Nosipho in the Showmax Original Empini. Catch all the episodes now on Showmax.

SA siblings’ debut film chosen for BFI London Film Festival
Finding Optel, co-directed by 20-something Mikayla and Jesse Brown, will make its international premiere at the BFI London Film Festival in October.
Latest Stories

Uncover the soul of South African football with the boxset of Giants

The best Premier League signings of 2025's summer window

Simo Magwaza on his challenging role as De Klerk in Youngins

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

What to watch on Showmax in September 2025

Kate and Annie take charge in Ten Pound Poms Season 2

Tshepo Miya talks about being on Married at First Sight

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

Khaki Fever and more sexy Afrikaans movies and series

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

Makoto on what really went down in her Married at First Sight journey

Palesa Mphaki on being Married at First Sight, her husband and more

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

Must-watch trailer: upcoming Showmax reality show Vaal Riviera

Showmax PL kicks off new football season with unmatched action

Shaka iLembe's Dawn Thandeka King on Untied