Renowned music video director, Clarence Peters has opened up about his unconventional childhood and how it shaped his journey into filmmaking.
He revealed that he didn’t grow up around many people his age due to frequent relocations. His first real friendships developed in church, where he met fellow creatives like Suspect.
Surrounded by family members in the arts—writers, directors, actors, and poets—Clarence Peters found inspiration early on. However, his ambition to become a filmmaker was met with skepticism.
He recalled how his English teacher didn’t even know what a cinematographer was when he expressed interest in the profession.
At the time, he chose the term “cinematographer” over “director” because it sounded more impressive.
Clarence Peters initially intended to direct films, but the lack of opportunities in the Nigerian film industry pushed him towards music videos.
He planned to spend a few years in the space, build a solid team, and transition into film. However, breaking into Nollywood proved difficult.
He struggled to have serious conversations with film marketers, who dismissed his ideas.
Despite these challenges, Clarence Peters built his production company with a film-centric approach. He established departments for costumes, art, props, and post-production—elements uncommon in music video production at the time.
His approach transformed the industry, proving that high-quality music videos could be produced in-house rather than outsourcing everything.
Clarence Peters on Film Industry Reject
Clarence Peters is never one to follow the conventional path, and his filmmaking journey reflects that.
The celebrated director spoke about the challenges he faced while trying to transition from music videos to film.
He recalled that when he finally decided to return to filmmaking in 2020, the resistance was overwhelming.
Despite his reputation, many industry insiders dismissed him as “just a music video guy,” making it difficult for him to break into the film industry.
Clarence Peters had always believed that streaming would shape the future of African cinema.
Long before platforms like Amazon Prime and Netflix became dominant, he saw how home videos thrived in Nigeria, realizing that cinema was more of an acquired taste.
However, by the time streaming platforms took off, he had been out of the film loop for too long and had to fight his way back into conversations.
The years between 2020 and 2023 were particularly difficult. He faced major setbacks but remained determined, building resilience along the way.
Looking back, Clarence Peters believes those struggles shaped his character, teaching him patience and the value of perseverance.
He expressed gratitude to the few individuals who supported him during these trying times, including industry veterans whose wisdom guided him through obstacles.
Now, as he works towards reclaiming his place in the film industry, he remains optimistic about the future.
Clarence Peters Opens Up About Father
The renowned music video director opened up about his father, legendary juju musician Shina Peters, acknowledging his past mistakes and their impact on his family.
Clarence Peters, the son of veteran actress Clarion Chukwura, shared his perspective on his father’s shortcomings and how they have shaped his approach to relationships.
“My dad screwed up. Using the word ‘screwed up’ is me putting it lightly because his colleagues blackballed my mum, and she was already dealing with a lot of trauma from when she was young.”
Clarence Peters
The filmmaker also reflected on his mother’s struggles, stating that while she endured difficult times, she later realized the impermanence of material wealth.
“My mum told me recently that he [Shina Peters] has been with women, driven some amazing cars, stayed in the best houses and hotels, and had money. But he is approaching his 70s now, and all he can do is pray to God for forgiveness.”
Clarence Peters
He admitted that while he has learned from his father’s missteps, he also recognizes that he has made some of his own.
“As much as I was raised by my mother, one of my greatest fears was not to be like my father to the opposite sex. I have been a version of that, so I am not a saint. So I cannot judge him.”
Clarence Peters
