“Freaky Freaky Graduate!” – Mr Macaroni Bags Prestigious Acting Degree from RADA, London

In a moment that lit up Nigerian social media and drew a standing ovation from fans and fellow creatives alike, beloved actor and comedian Debo Adebayo, famously known as Mr Macaroni, has added a major feather to his cap by completing a highly coveted course at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London. The “Freaky freaky!” maestro, widely admired for his satirical skits and unshakable activism, announced the milestone with heartfelt gratitude, beaming pride, and the unmistakable humility that has endeared him to millions.

Taking to his Instagram page, Mr Macaroni shared photos of himself in front of the iconic RADA building, alongside fellow students, flashing his signature smile that speaks of triumph seasoned with resilience. “I am excited to complete the Advanced Acting for Camera Course at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art,” he wrote, his caption reflecting not just joy but a renewed hunger for growth. “I had a great time with the most adorable and creatively inspiring course mates as we were graciously tutored by exceptionally transformative and illuminating teachers.”

It was not just an announcement. It was a loud declaration from a man who has long used comedy to confront injustice, challenge mediocrity, and inspire a new wave of activism through entertainment. From playing the randy, sugar daddy-esque “Daddy Wa” in his skits to marching on the front lines of protests against police brutality, Mr Macaroni’s journey has never been one of comfort or convention. And yet, here he stands, a product of the same institution that trained some of the finest actors the world has known – from Anthony Hopkins and Alan Rickman to Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Cynthia Erivo.

This new achievement isn’t just about adding an international diploma to his resume – it is an undeniable testament to the power of reinvention. Long before the skits, before the fame, and even before the viral red agbada, Debo Adebayo was simply a young Nigerian trying to find his voice in an industry that often shuns unconventional voices. A graduate of Theatre Arts from Redeemer’s University, his love for acting was never in doubt. But it was through social media, creating his own platform and persona, that he reintroduced himself to Nigeria—and the world.

In enrolling at RADA, arguably the highest temple of dramatic instruction in the United Kingdom, Mr Macaroni didn’t just seek validation—he pursued refinement. The Advanced Acting for Camera course is no walk in the park. It’s intensive, immersive, and designed for experienced actors who want to master the art of performance in front of the lens. That he was accepted into such a programme is proof of his talent; that he completed it with distinction is a revelation of his dedication.

Fans and celebrities alike flooded his comment section with congratulatory messages. Words like “inspiring,” “powerful,” and “goosebumps” echoed repeatedly. Filmmakers began to speak more boldly about the possibility of seeing Mr Macaroni take on serious feature-length dramatic roles, beyond the comedy that made him a household name. Could this be the beginning of a new chapter in Nollywood’s own renaissance? Will Mr Macaroni be that crossover actor who moves from satirical sketches to commanding presence in high-budget cinema? The possibilities now seem endless.

But beyond the glitz of global institutions and the applause of the internet, this moment hits deeper for many Nigerians who have followed Mr Macaroni's evolution. Here is a man who was once rusticated from a university, battled rejection after rejection, and even took a break from acting to “find himself,” before courageously returning to the stage of life with a new voice, bold and unafraid. From doing stage plays in Lagos to being arrested at Lekki Toll Gate for protesting against SARS, his story is not just inspiring—it’s familiar. It’s every Nigerian youth’s story. Struggle. Failure. Rebirth. Victory.

Education has always been one of his core messages. In many of his skits, the deeper subtext is often about societal ignorance and the need for enlightenment, be it through schooling or exposure. With this RADA achievement, Mr Macaroni is now preaching by example. It’s one thing to advocate for development; it’s another to commit to it personally and publicly. For an actor already at the top of his game in the Nigerian scene, choosing to go back to school, to learn afresh, to challenge himself on foreign soil, is the kind of humility and discipline that only greatness understands.

As he returns to Nigeria, likely with a head full of fresh techniques and a heart even more eager to tell impactful stories, the industry waits with bated breath. What does a RADA-trained Mr Macaroni look like on screen? Will he bring Shakespeare to Lagos? Or will he birth an entirely new genre, where satire, activism, and professional craft blend seamlessly? Whatever the case, the bar has just been raised.

The timing couldn’t be more perfect. With Nollywood expanding globally and more African actors making waves on international platforms, Mr Macaroni’s RADA credential is not just a personal win—it’s a cultural symbol. It screams that African stories, when handled with skill and depth, can go toe to toe with any production in the world. It’s a message to every struggling creative that your background does not define your ceiling. That with grit, growth, and God, you can go from Instagram skits to global stages.

For now, the skit master wears a new crown—not of velvet and embroidery, but of wisdom and evolution. Fans can expect that future Mr Macaroni productions will come with a sharper edge, deeper layers, and perhaps even international collaborations. He may still shout “Ooin, you’re doing well!” but now it’s more than a joke. It’s a reality he’s living. And he’s just getting started.

Indeed, from the streets of Lagos to the stages of London, Mr Macaroni has proven once again that comedy may be the vehicle, but excellence is the destination.