Nigerian comedian, actor, and producer AY Makun has achieved another milestone in his illustrious career as his latest film, The Waiter, has surpassed ₦300 million at the Nigerian box office.
On January 15, 2025, the action-comedy officially grossed an impressive ₦305.1 million, cementing its position as one of Nollywood’s most successful films. The movie’s financial triumph is a testament to AY’s ability to connect with audiences, offering a blend of humor and action that continues to captivate viewers.
“We always aim to create stories that resonate with Nigerians while showcasing the versatility of our industry,” AY said during a recent interview celebrating the movie’s success.
Released on December 20, 2024, The Waiter captured audiences from its opening weekend, rapidly crossing the ₦200 million mark within its first two weeks. By early January, total earnings had reached ₦218.6 million, and the film continued to draw crowds well into its fourth week, earning an additional ₦26.6 million.
“It’s heartwarming to see such support from fans,” AY remarked. “This proves that Nigerian cinema is growing and gaining the recognition it deserves.” The Waiter now finds itself in the elite company of Nollywood blockbusters such as Toyin Abraham’s Alakada: Bad and Boujee, which premiered on the same day, and Everybody Loves Jenifa, a record-breaking hit with over ₦1.6 billion in earnings.
The story of The Waiter revolves around Akpos, portrayed by AY Makun, a down-on-his-luck man who secures a temporary job as a waiter at the upscale Crystal Hotel.
During a high-profile event hosted by the Minister of Poverty Alleviation, Akpos unwittingly becomes entangled in a scheme designed to aid the underprivileged. The film masterfully blends humor, action, and emotional moments, offering a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences.
“It’s not just about making people laugh; it’s about telling stories that matter,” AY explained. “With The Waiter, we wanted to show the power of resilience and the unexpected turns life can take.”
Beyond his latest cinematic success, AY Makun’s journey in the entertainment industry is nothing short of remarkable. Starting as a personal assistant to comedy legend Alibaba Akporobome,
AY has risen to become one of Nigeria’s most celebrated entertainers. His versatility is evident in his ability to excel across various facets of entertainment, including stand-up comedy, acting, and film production.
“Entertainment is about evolution,” AY once said. “You have to constantly reinvent yourself to stay relevant.” He has also showcased his comedic genius in the sitcom AY’s Crib, working alongside notable actors like Alex Ekubo, Venita Akpofure, and Buchi Franklin.
As the Chief Executive Officer of Corporate World Entertainment Nigeria, AY has expanded his influence beyond the screen. He is the creator of the widely popular AY Live, a comedy show that has featured top Nigerian comedians like Bovi and Helen Paul.
Additionally, AY’s contributions to stand-up comedy include the AY Open Mic Challenge, an initiative that has discovered and nurtured new talent in the industry. “Giving back is essential,” AY said of the program. “The industry grows when we create opportunities for others to shine.”
His role as a trailblazer is further highlighted by his ventures in event hosting, including co-hosting the 2018 Golden Movie Awards Africa alongside Ghanaian actress Joselyn Dumas.
The success of The Waiter is a reflection of the growing appetite for quality Nigerian cinema, both locally and internationally. AY Makun’s ability to seamlessly transition between comedy, acting, and film production continues to set him apart as a leading figure in the entertainment industry.
“This is just the beginning,” AY teased when asked about his future plans. As fans and industry insiders celebrate the success of The Waiter, all eyes are on AY Makun, eagerly awaiting the next chapter in his groundbreaking career.
