Sophia Michaels
The name ‘Iya Gbonkan’ would surely ring a bell in the ears of movie audience who are especially familiar with the Yoruba speaking sector of the film industry.
From being the wicked leader of the occult to the terrific mother who sucks off the blood of her own children in movies, Iya Gbonkan’s delivery of her special roles has remained intriguing and daring till today.
In fact, not to sugarcoat words, the mere sight of the grand leader of the underworld mothers as the character of Iya Gbonkan projects most times, would give an audience nightmare for days.
How much do you think you know Iya Gbonkan? The following are five facts about her:
• Her real name is Margaret Bandele Olayinka.
• She undertook her first performing arts training under the mentorship of Duro Ladipo. During this period, performances were basically delivered on stage.
• Iya Gbonkan emerged into the film conversation in the early 70s featuring in the IFA OLOKUN’s TV series by Yemi Elebubon.
• Her father was a trader in Ibadan andshe is also the only child her mother had for her father.
• After fleeing from her hometown due to series of maltreatment from her father’s relative, she came to Ibadan where she served as a housemaid. She was employed as a maid in Ibadan with the knowledge of her father.
• She is from Otu, Itesiwaju local government in Oyo state. In addition, her mother is a native of Iseyin in Oyo state.
• Iya Gbonkan got her major breakthrough in the productions of Yekini Ajileye.
