“I Didn’t Believe I’d Survive”: Dele Odule Reveals Why He Once Priced His Own Coffin

In a deeply emotional and candid interview that has surfaced today, Wednesday, May 6, 2026, veteran Nollywood actor Dele Odule opened up about a period of intense personal crisis that led him to contemplate his own death.

The legendary Ti Oluwa Ni Ile star revealed that years ago, while living in Abeokuta, his life had fallen into such a state of “shambles” that he began making his own burial arrangements.

The “Casket” Revelation

Odule’s reflection on his mental health and past struggles has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian entertainment industry:

  • The Breaking Point: He described a period where he felt completely overwhelmed and disconnected from his sense of self. “I had priced my own casket before when everything and my life were in shambles,” he shared.
  • A Witness to the Crisis: Odule noted that his colleague and friend, Olaiya Igwe, was present during this dark moment. He recalled that Olaiya was visibly moved to tears upon witnessing the depth of his despair.
  • The Message of Hope: Despite reaching that low point, the actor emphasized that he eventually “broke through” the darkness. He shared the story as a testament to resilience, encouraging others that even the most dire situations can be overcome.

Context: A Year of Hard Truths

This revelation adds another layer to Odule’s recent candidness about his personal life.

  • Past Tragedies: In early 2025, the actor previously shared that the loss of his first child was the saddest moment of his life, an experience he said was almost too hard to bear.
  • Industry Impact: His latest interview is being hailed as a vital conversation on the mental health of veteran entertainers, who often face immense pressure and financial instability after their “golden era” in the spotlight.