Nollywood actor Bucci Franklin recently spoke about his childhood. He talked about the difficulties of growing up without a father present. He also praised single mothers for their hard work and strength.
During a YouTube interview with Chude Jideonwo, Franklin shared that his father was alive but was not around when he was a child. The actor said this lack of a father figure led him to make some bad choices as a teenager.
The Struggle of a Single Mother
Franklin explained how tough it was for his mom. “As a kid, I had my woman shege (which means ‘a tough experience’),” he said. “It is not easy to be a single parent. My mum had to go to work. Not having a father figure is quite difficult.” He gave full credit to his mother for raising him on her own.
Falling into Bad Habits
Without a dad to guide him, Franklin got into trouble. He admitted that he started drinking beer and smoking cigarettes at a very young age. He also said he was focused on girls. “I was into girls, drugs by drugs, I mean cigarettes. Drinking beer at a very young age. Coming back home completely wasted,” he shared.
Why Boys Need a Father Figure
Franklin showed great respect for single moms but explained that boys especially need a man in their lives. “Maximum respect to women out there taking care of their children by themselves,” he said. “But you need a man in your life. If you do not want to get married, you need a brother to play that role. For boys especially, you just need a father figure.”
Forgiving His Father
Even though his father was absent, Franklin has chosen to forgive him. He now has a relationship with his dad and sees him differently. “My dad is good, but he was not in the picture. I see him now for the man he is, not the man he was. I have forgiven him,” Franklin stated.
Thanking His Mom
The actor gave all the credit for his success to his mother, Mrs. Joy. He said she is the reason he became a good man. “The man that I am today, and that I would continue to be, is because of Mrs. Joy,” he added. He also advised other young people without a father to find a good role model to look up to.
Bucci Franklin’s honest story shows the real challenges for kids without fathers. It also highlights the amazing strength of single mothers who work hard to raise their children alone.
