I didn’t want to emulate my father – Clarence Peters

Renowned music video director Clarence Peters has opened up about his deep and complex relationship with his father, Afro-Juju legend Shina Peters.

Speaking on the WithChude podcast, Clarence revealed how his father’s past, particularly his treatment of women, shaped his approach to relationships.

The impact on his mother, Clarion Chukwura

He candidly discussed how his father’s actions affected his mother, veteran actress Clarion Chukwura. He expressed deep emotions about how the entertainment industry treated her unfairly while his father thrived.

According to Clarence, Shina Peters failed to protect her from professional backlash, which left a lasting mark on both mother and son.

Acknowledging his Father’s mistakes

In the interview, he admitted that his father made serious errors. “My dad screwed up,” he said. “And using the word ‘screwed up’ is me putting it lightly. His colleagues blackballed my mom, and she was already dealing with a lot of trauma from her younger years.”

These experiences deeply influenced Clarence’s view of relationships. He made a conscious effort to avoid repeating his father’s missteps.

However, he also acknowledged his own flaws, recognizing that he had made mistakes as well.

Uncovering hidden family wounds

While working on Inside Life, a project meant to explore real-life struggles, Clarence unexpectedly uncovered a painful family history. Episode 5, written by his cousin, revealed experiences that mirrored what his mother endured. “When my mom read the script, she started crying,” Clarence recalled. “She saw her own story reflected in it.”

Understanding his Father’s era

Despite the pain, Clarence has tried to understand his father’s choices. He recognized that his father lived in a different time, one where fame and success often led to excesses. “My dad told me recently that he has been with many women, driven the best cars, stayed in luxury hotels, and had money,” Clarence said. “Now, as he approaches 70, he knows death is certain. All he can do is pray for forgiveness.”

A conversation about forgiveness

This realization led to an honest conversation between father and son. Clarence admitted that while he worked hard to avoid becoming like his father, he had not always succeeded. “As much as I was raised by my mother, one of my biggest fears was becoming my father in how I treated women,” he confessed. “But I have been a version of that. I am not a saint, so I cannot judge him.”

Lessons in growth and redemption

Clarence’s words reflected self-awareness and empathy. He acknowledged that mistakes are part of life and that true growth comes from recognizing and learning from them. While he does not excuse his father’s past, he understands it. Their relationship now is built on reflection, forgiveness, and valuable lessons from the past.

Redefining his own path

His story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and the complexities of family legacies. Through his journey, he continues to redefine what it means to be a son, a man, and a storyteller.

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