Veteran comic actor Kehinde Olasehinde, popularly known as Pa James, has opened up about his long-standing relationship with renowned producer Wale Adenuga and his journey on the iconic TV series Papa Ajasco and Company.
In a recent chat with media personality Lucky Udu, the actor revealed that he remains actively connected to the production and still features in the show whenever new episodes are filmed.
Reflecting on his career, Olasehinde credited the series for bringing him widespread recognition, noting that it elevated his fame beyond what he achieved in earlier Yoruba-language films.
He also recalled how the opportunity improved his finances at the time, even enabling him to purchase his first car shortly after joining the cast.
Production Schedule
However, he explained that the production schedule has significantly changed over the years.
Unlike before, when filming was frequent and consistent, the show is now produced in batches.
After completing a set of episodes, the cast may wait for long stretches—sometimes up to two years—before being called back to set.
Due to these long breaks, the actor emphasized the importance of having alternative sources of income. While he is free to appear in other film projects, he pointed out a key limitation: he cannot use the name “Pa James” outside the series because it is a registered trademark owned by the production.
Speaking on earnings, Olasehinde revealed that his pay has grown over time.
He started out earning a modest ₦2,500 per episode, but now receives about ₦45,000 per episode.
Working With Wale Adenuga
Despite this increase, he noted that the relatively small number of episodes produced annually—around ten—makes it difficult to rely on the show as a steady source of income.
“Working with Wale Adenuga really helped my career and finances,” he said. “But these days, you need something else on the side to survive because the work doesn’t come as often as it used to.”
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Papa Ajasco and Company, produced by Wale Adenuga Productions, has been a staple on Nigerian television since the 1990s, with the character Pa James remaining one of its most beloved and recognizable figures.