Celebrity Gist

AY Debunks Retirement Rumours, Says He’s still Relevant By Grace

Published on July 15, 2025

AY debunks retirement rumours, says he remains active and relevant in comedy and filmmaking thanks to divine grace. “AY no dey retire,” he declares

Nigerian comedian and filmmaker Ayo Makun, popularly known as AY, has shut down rumours suggesting he plans to retire from the entertainment industry because of age.

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The veteran entertainer addressed the speculation on Sunday via his official Instagram page, where he shared a message affirming his continued relevance in the Nigerian entertainment scene.

“They said the spotlight dims with age… I guess I forgot the memo. Call it grace. Still Relevant, AY No Dey Retire,” he wrote.

AY, who has built a strong career spanning stand-up comedy, event hosting, and blockbuster filmmaking, reminded critics that age is not a barrier to excellence.

His declaration came after online whispers questioning whether the 52-year-old comedian might be stepping back from public life due to age or a slowing career.

Fans quickly flooded his comment section with support, applauding him for staying grounded, evolving with time, and using his platform to inspire younger talents.

AY’s career took off in the early 2000s after he worked as an assistant to comedy legend Alibaba.

Over the years, he carved a niche for himself with shows like AY Live and movies such as 30 Days in Atlanta, A Trip to Jamaica, and Merry Men.

Despite setbacks, including a recent fire incident at his Lekki mansion, AY has remained resilient and present in the media space.

“I’m not just still standing — I’m thriving,” he told a close associate, who attended his recent private screening.

He added that divine grace continues to sustain him, saying, “If there’s one thing I’ve learnt, it’s that relevance is not tied to trends but to purpose. Once your purpose is clear, you’ll remain visible.”

They said the spotlight dims with age… I guess I forgot the memo. Call it grace. Still Relevant, AY No Dey Retire.

Industry insiders have commended AY for his consistency. From hosting sold-out shows in London and Toronto to producing box office hits, he has remained one of the few comedians to make a successful transition into Nollywood filmmaking.

“He has reinvented himself many times,” said actress Uche Jombo.

“AY is not just a comedian; he’s a businessman and storyteller. That kind of combination keeps you relevant.”

According to close friends, AY is working on new film projects and preparing for a special anniversary edition of AY Live, set to hold later this year in Lagos.

The entertainer also hinted at mentoring emerging talents through a yet-to-be-announced programme.

“There’s a generation of stars rising. I want to be part of their journey — not from a distance, but as a guide,” he wrote in a recent post.

Observers say AY’s ability to blend humour with real-life narratives is one of the secrets to his longevity.

His comedy often touches on politics, relationships, and societal issues in a way that resonates with both young and older audiences.

As he continues to draw crowds and dominate social media trends, AY’s recent statement signals a refusal to be boxed in by age or expectation.

“People expect you to step aside at a certain age, but greatness has no expiry date,” a fan commented. “He is a legend who’s still writing his story.”