Under the Influence: Funmbi Oguntoye on the price of fame

Episode 4 of Under the Influence opens with Dami (Iremide Adeoye) caught between dreams and reality. In a vivid subconscious moment, he shares an intimate connection with Amaka (Funmbi Oguntoye), only to be jolted awake by his friend Oye (Isioma Okey-Nwosu), who reminds him of an important TV interview he needs to prepare for. 

The episode then shifts to a more pressing issue: Dami’s appearance on Menisms, an Urban Pop Culture podcast hosted by Michael Sonariwo and Olumurewa Ogunkoya, with Michael Sonariwo making a guest appearance. Here, Dami addresses the Ohdogwu crypto scandal – a fiasco that turned out to be a scam, leaving many of his followers out of pocket. On the podcast, Dami seizes the opportunity to clear his name, explaining how he got involved and shedding light on his side of the story. 

Following this, Oye, ever the ambitious promoter, pushes Dami’s influencer career forward by setting up a meeting with a club owner named Rolex. Initially, Rolex dismissed Dami’s 21k followers, stating that only influencers with a bigger reach are worth his attention. But after sensing a good vibe from Dami and Oye, Rolex invites them to his club for drinks. He makes it clear, however, that no business collaborations will happen until Dami hits at least 100k followers. 

As Dami navigates his rapidly growing fame, he finally gathers the courage to message Amaka online, a move that starts to stir romantic tension. She replies with a playful message that says, “Funny guys are my weakness.” Could this be the start of a romance? 

Later that night at the club, the evening takes a wild turn. The first two drinks are complimentary, but Dami and Oye soon find themselves swept up in the party atmosphere, racking up a 4-million Naira tab. The episode ends with the duo making a frantic escape, running through the streets to avoid the bill. 

In this interview with Funmbi Oguntoye, she delves into the blurred lines between social media and reality, much like her character Amaka in Under the Influence. Amaka has spent years in the spotlight, thriving on engagement but grappling with the pressures of constantly performing for an audience. 

Oguntoye reflects on how Dami’s sudden rise to fame mirrors real-life influencer culture, where one viral moment can change everything. She also shares her thoughts on authenticity in the digital age, the thrill of playing Amaka, and why she’s proudly Team Dami. 

For Oguntoye, social media validation has never been a driving force. “Honestly, nothing! I’m not that type of person,” she says, when asked about the craziest thing she’s done for online clout. “If I do something, it’s because I stand by it. No regrets, no take-backs. Period!” 

Still, she admits that Amaka’s struggles as an influencer feel familiar. As a content creator herself, she often questions whether she’s being real enough. “Social media is a whole different world, but at the end of the day, I always want to stay true to myself while still connecting with people.” 

For Oguntoye, authenticity is the real currency of the internet. “Being real is the best content strategy. When people relate to what you’re sharing, they relate to you. That connection makes them support you, follow you, and root for you.” 

And when it comes to choosing sides in Under the Influence, she’s not hiding her stance. “Eii… Are you guys trying to put me in trouble?” she laughs. “I’ll keep it lowkey, but let’s just say… Team Dami all the way!” 

Her character’s relationship with Dami is a key turning point in the series. “As Amaka and Dami’s bond deepens, the show’s plot evolves. She gives him a glimpse into the world of fame and influence, and that dynamic plays a major role in his journey.” 

Playing Amaka was an experience she won’t forget. “She’s like the evolved version of me – almost like stepping into my higher self. I love that about her.” 

Catch new episodes of Under the Influence every Friday, exclusively on Showmax. 

Watch the full interview here