Nigerian comedian and actor Ayo Makun, popularly known as AY, has sparked reactions online after speaking openly about the deceptive lifestyles portrayed by many celebrities and influencers on social media. In a video shared on his Instagram page on Thursday, the renowned entertainer warned Nigerians not to fall for the illusion of luxury often displayed online, noting that much of what people see is carefully staged and far from reality.
AY explained that social media has become a platform where people showcase false images of success, wealth, and happiness. He revealed that behind the glamorous pictures of designer fashion, luxury cars, and exotic locations lies a culture of pretense that misleads many followers into believing these lifestyles are real. According to him, some influencers go to the extent of borrowing clothes, posing in hotel lobbies, or taking photos beside cars that do not belong to them, all to maintain an image of affluence.
The comedian likened social media to a movie set where everything is scripted to impress rather than to tell the truth. He emphasized that people should stop comparing their real lives to the filtered perfection they see online and instead focus on genuine growth and self-improvement. “Many of these celebrities you admire are living on borrowed wigs, borrowed clothes, and borrowed lifestyles,” he said. “Some take pictures in hotel lobbies and call them their new homes, while others pose with cars that don’t belong to them. Social media is like a movie set—most of what you see isn’t real.”
AY encouraged his followers to stay authentic and patient with their personal journey, reminding them that true success is built on progress and peace of mind, not pretense. He urged Nigerians to be content with what they have, focus on their own pace of growth, and avoid the unhealthy comparisons that often lead to frustration and self-doubt.
His remarks have since gained wide attention, resonating with many who praised him for addressing the growing culture of fake luxury among public figures. AY’s message stands as a timely reminder in an age where appearances often overshadow authenticity, urging people to value real achievement over online validation.