Patricia Ngozi Ebigwei—widely known by her professional name Patti Boulaye—is an accomplished singer, actress, model, and educator with a remarkable legacy in entertainment spanning several decades. Born on May 3, 1954, she rose to fame in the 1970s and has since become a celebrated figure in both Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
Her Journey to Stardom
Patti Boulaye gained widespread recognition after winning New Faces in 1978, a television talent show that launched her into stardom. She became one of the leading black British entertainers of the 70s, 80s, and early 90s. In Nigeria, Patti is fondly remembered as the face of Lux Soap commercials for nearly 29 years, and for her roles in films like Bisi, Daughter of the River and her TV program, The Patti Boulaye Show. Her stage name is believed to have been inspired by actress Evelyn “Boo” Laye.
Patti’s early life began in Okpanam, Delta State, where she was born into a culturally diverse family—her mother, Arit, was Efik, while her father, Paul, was Igbo. Her birth story is as remarkable as her career: she was born in a taxi between Asaba and Onitsha, as her parents were en route to the hospital.
Family Life and Early Challenges
Patti came from a large family, with siblings including Tony Ebigwei, a Nigerian Airways pilot who tragically died in the 1978 Kano plane crash. Her parents’ marriage ended when she was still a baby, resulting in a difficult childhood under the care of a stepmother who was reluctant to raise her father’s first family. Patti and her siblings experienced displacement as they moved between homes and boarding schools. However, the family eventually reunited with their mother in Lagos, where she remarried Samuel Goomsu Ikoku, son of Alvan Ikoku, the Nigerian educator featured on the ten-naira note.
Patti’s mother played a vital role in shaping her values, emphasizing education, spirituality, and kindness. Patti credits these principles for much of her success and personal philosophy.
Impact of the Biafran War
During the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), Patti and her sister experienced the chaos firsthand, caught behind enemy lines. Their mother’s courage shone during these difficult times, as she sheltered up to 30 people at a time in their home to protect them from the conflict.
Personal Life
Patti met her husband, Stephen Komlosy, under unconventional circumstances—he was already married with four children. Despite her initial reservations, the couple married and have been together for over 40 years, raising two children, Emma and Sebastian, along with four stepchildren. Drawing from her own childhood experiences, Patti vowed to treat her stepchildren with love and respect.
A Life of Art, Music, and Influence
Beyond her acting career, Patti Boulaye has released several albums that reflect her artistic range:
Patti Boulaye (1976)
You Stepped into My Life (1978)
Magic (1981)
Patti (1983)
In His Kingdom (2004)
Sun Dance (2004)
She also appeared in movies and TV shows such as:
Hussy
The Fosters
The Music Machine
Brothers and Sisters
Dempsey and Makepeace
Bisi, Daughter of the River (Nigeria)
Legacy and Influence
After leaving Nigeria at age 16, Patti became an international star, making significant contributions to the arts, both as a performer and a lecturer. Her achievements have earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Order of the British Empire (OBE). On May 3, 2024, she celebrated her 70th birthday, marking yet another milestone in a life full of remarkable accomplishments.
Patti’s story reflects resilience, passion, and dedication. She remains committed to her Christian values, as taught by her late mother, who passed away at the age of 91 with 2,500 mourners attending her funeral. Patti emphasizes the importance of family, stating that family is her sanctuary and guiding force, shaping her life and legacy.
With her extraordinary talent and impact, Patti Boulaye remains an enduring symbol of excellence and grace.
