Liz Benson Biography: Age, Movies, Husband & Ministry

Liz Benson

Liz Benson is a veteran Nigerian actress, television personality, and ordained minister who became one of the most recognizable faces in Nollywood during the 1990s. Born on April 5, 1966, she is currently 59 years old (as of 2026). Known for her elegance, emotional depth, and commanding screen presence, Liz Benson remains one of the most respected actresses in the Nigerian film industry.

Early Life and Education

Liz Benson was born and raised in Nigeria, where she spent her formative years developing a passion for performance and public speaking. From a young age, she showed confidence and a natural ability to express herself, traits that would later define her acting career.

She pursued higher education at Delta State University, Abraka, where she studied English Language and Literature. Her academic background in literature sharpened her communication skills and helped her interpret scripts with depth and understanding. Even before fully entering Nollywood, Liz had already begun exploring opportunities in television and stage performances.

Acting Career and Rise to Fame

Liz Benson began acting at a relatively young age, reportedly starting her professional career in her early twenties. However, she rose to widespread fame in the early 1990s when Nollywood was still in its formative stage.

Her breakthrough came with her powerful role in the classic Nigerian film Glamour Girls (1994), a movie that became a cultural phenomenon. The film’s success introduced her to a national audience and established her as one of the leading actresses of her generation. She quickly became known for playing strong, emotional, and sometimes tragic characters.

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Liz Benson featured in numerous hit films, including True Confession, War Front, and other high-profile productions that defined the golden era of Nollywood. She was often cast as a sophisticated woman, a devoted wife, or a resilient mother facing life’s challenges. Her ability to cry convincingly on screen and portray deep emotional struggles earned her admiration from fans and colleagues alike.

During this period, she was considered one of the highest-paid and most sought-after actresses in the industry. Her graceful appearance, calm voice, and dignified personality set her apart. Liz Benson became a household name, not just in Nigeria but across Africa, where Nollywood films were widely distributed.

Temporary Break from Nollywood

At the peak of her career, Liz Benson stepped away from acting, a decision that surprised many fans. Her absence from the screen led to widespread speculation, but she later revealed that her focus had shifted toward her spiritual life and family.

She became deeply involved in Christian ministry and eventually became an ordained minister. For many years, she dedicated her time to church work and personal development, choosing a quieter life away from the spotlight. Her transformation from movie star to minister became an inspiring story for many Nigerians.

Return to the Screen

After years away from the industry, Liz Benson made a gradual return to acting. Her comeback was warmly received by fans who had missed her presence. Although she became more selective about her roles, she continued to appear in films that aligned with her values and beliefs.

Her return demonstrated her enduring relevance in Nollywood. Younger actors and filmmakers regard her as a trailblazer who helped shape the early structure of the industry.

Married Life and Family

Liz Benson’s marital life has had both joyful and challenging chapters. She was first married at a young age, and the union produced children. However, tragedy struck when her first husband passed away. The loss deeply affected her, and she had to navigate life as a widow while raising her children.

Years later, she found love again and remarried Bishop Great Emeya, a Christian minister. Their marriage marked a new phase in her life, rooted strongly in faith and shared spiritual purpose. The couple works together in ministry, and Liz Benson has often spoken about how her faith guided her through grief and into renewed happiness.

Her marriage to Bishop Emeya is widely seen as stable and supportive. Together, they focus on church activities, counseling, and community service. Liz Benson maintains a relatively private family life, keeping her children and personal matters away from excessive media exposure.

Legacy and Influence

Liz Benson is regarded as one of the pioneers of Nollywood’s golden era. At a time when the industry was still evolving, she helped set high standards for professionalism and performance. Her emotional acting style influenced many younger actresses who came after her.

Beyond acting, her journey from fame to faith has become part of her legacy. She represents resilience, transformation, and the ability to reinvent oneself. Even at 59 years old, she remains admired for her grace, wisdom, and continued contributions to both entertainment and ministry.

Today, Liz Benson stands as a symbol of dedication, talent, and spiritual growth. Her story reflects not only the rise of Nollywood but also the personal evolution of a woman who balanced fame, family, and faith with dignity.