Former Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) housemate Erica Nlewedim has opened up about the emotional toll of being on the reality show, describing the experience as traumatic.

In an interview with media personality Toke Makinwa, the actress and entrepreneur said she would never return to a show like BBNaija, despite the financial gains it brought her.

“I’ll never go to a show like Big Brother Naija again in my life. I’m happy I did it because, of course, it changed my life money-wise, but I’m never doing it again if I’m given the opportunity. I was getting like 3 years of back-to-back insults. I had to see a therapist because of that show,” she said.

The 2020 BBNaija Lockdown housemate said the constant online criticism following her exit had a lasting impact on her mental health, prompting her to seek professional help in 2024.

Despite the challenges, Erica said the platform significantly changed her career trajectory.

Since leaving the house, she has become one of Nigeria’s most recognisable reality TV stars.

She has starred in several Nollywood films and commercials and currently serves as a brand ambassador for multiple Nigerian companies.

Erica has also ventured into business with her own skincare line.

Big Brother Naija remains one of Africa’s biggest reality shows, drawing millions of viewers annually and often catapulting housemates to instant fame.