LAGOS, Nigeria — Nollywood actor Yul Edochie has again defended his decision to marry a second wife, saying he believed it was possible for a man to love two women and that his second wife, Judy Austin, had made a major impact on his life.
Edochie, who married Judy Austin in 2022 while still married to his first wife, May Edochie, said his decision was not intended to disrespect or replace May, but was based on his personal conviction at the time. His explanation followed years of public controversy over the marriage, which drew criticism from fans, colleagues and members of his family.
In a video titled “Why I married a second wife,” Edochie said he could not let Austin go because of the role she had played in his life. He argued that two women could contribute differently to a man’s growth, adding that love could exist in different forms.
“At this stage in my life, I think it is possible for a man to love two women,” he said. “Two women can contribute differently to the man’s life.”
The actor, son of veteran Nollywood star Pete Edochie, shocked many Nigerians in April 2022 when he publicly introduced Austin as his second wife and announced that they had a son together. The announcement triggered widespread backlash, particularly because May Edochie publicly distanced herself from the union.
The controversy has remained one of the most discussed celebrity stories in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. Critics accused Edochie of betraying his first wife, while some supporters argued that he had the right to make personal choices about his family life.
Edochie has repeatedly insisted that he takes responsibility for his actions and that his decision was not meant to humiliate anyone. He has also said public criticism would not change his belief that marrying Austin was a decision he had to make.
The actor’s family situation later became more complicated after May filed for divorce and took legal steps against him and Austin, according to multiple reports. The couple had been married for several years and had children together before the public announcement of the second marriage.
Edochie’s explanation is unlikely to end the debate. For many Nigerians, the issue touches broader questions about marriage, tradition, religion, celebrity culture and accountability in public relationships.
For the actor, however, the message remains consistent: he says his second marriage was a personal decision shaped by love, impact and responsibility, even if many people disagree with it.
