
What Is the Entertainment Business Called? and A Deep Dive into the Industry That Powers Pop Culture
An entertainment business is called Showbiz which involves any venture that creates, manages, promotes, or distributes content designed to inform, amuse, or engage people. eg music, movies, comedy, sports, and digital media business depending on the one you are into which has become a global phenomenon but have you ever wondered: what is the entertainment business called exactly? Is it just “showbiz,” or is there more to it?
In this article, we’ll break down what the entertainment business is truly called, what it involves, and why it’s one of the fastest-growing industries in the world especially here in Nigeria.
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So, What Is the Entertainment Business Called?
The entertainment business is commonly referred to as:
- The Entertainment Industry
- The Show Business (or simply, Showbiz)
- Media & Entertainment Sector
- Creative Industry
- Content Industry (especially in the digital age)
All these terms describe a vast network of professionals, platforms, and content creatorsnwho produce and monetize entertainment for mass consumption.
What Does the Entertainment Industry Include?
Contrary to what many believe, it’s not just about actors and musicians. The entertainment business includes:
1. Music Industry
Artists, record labels, music producers, distributors (like Apple Music, Boomplay, and Spotify), event promoters, and streaming platforms.
2. Film & Television Industry
Nollywood and Hollywood, film directors, screenwriters, video editors, actors, and cinemas like Filmhouse.
3. Comedy and Live Entertainment
Stand-up comedians, live shows, skit creators, and social media personalities.
4. Sports Entertainment
Football clubs, athletes, promoters, broadcasting rights, and major sporting events.
5. Digital Content & Influencer Industry
TikTokers, YouTubers, Instagram influencers, podcasters, bloggers, and streamers.
6. Fashion, Arts & Culture
Fashion designers, cultural events, photographers, and visual artists.

The Rise of Nigeria’s Entertainment Business
Nigeria’s entertainment industry like especially Nollywood, Afrobeats, and comedy skits which has gained international fame. According to PwC and Statista, Nigeria’s media and entertainment sector is worth billions of naira and growing annually.
From Wizkid selling out the O2 Arena, to Funke Akindele producing box office hits, Nigeria’s entertainers are turning passion into serious profit.
Who Runs the Entertainment Business?
Behind the scenes, the industry involves:
- Talent managers
- Content creators
- Event planners
- Publicists
- Digital marketers
- Rights and licensing lawyers
- Brand sponsors and advertisers
It’s not just glamour and it’s also a well-oiled machine driven by creativity, marketing, and business acumen.
Why Is It Called Showbiz?
“Showbiz” is short for show business a term that captures both the performance (show) and the commercial (business) side of entertainment. In other words, it’s not just about talent it’s about money, branding, and influence.
Think of it as the business of fame.
How Do People Make Money in the Entertainment Business?
Here are some major revenue sources:
- Ticket sales for concerts, films, and shows
- Streaming royalties (music and video)
- Brand endorsements & influencer marketing
- Content monetization on platforms like YouTube and TikTok
- Merchandising (branded clothing, products)
- Sponsorship deals and partnerships
The goal is clear: turn attention into income.
Is It a Good Career Path?
Absolutely if you treat it like a business. While it can be competitive, the rewards are enormous for those who:
- Build a strong personal brand
- Stay consistent and creative
- Learn the business side (licensing, promotion, monetization)
In Nigeria and globally, creatives are no longer “starving artists” they are now CEOs of their own brands.
WhatsnextNG Conclusion: It’s Not Just Fun but Also a Business
To sum it up, the entertainment business is called names like the entertainment industry,and also known as show business, media & entertainment, or the creative economy. Showbiz which involves any venture that creates, manages, promotes, or distributes content designed to inform, amuse, or engage people. eg music, movies, comedy, sports, and digital media business depending on the one you are into which has become a global phenomenon but have you ever wondered: what is the entertainment business called exactly? Is it just “showbiz,”.
It’s a booming space where passion meets profit, and where talent alone isn’t enough, and you are going to need more like you need vision, hustle, and strategy.
Whether you’re a musician in Surulere, a skit maker in Abuja, or a fashion creative in Yaba you’re in the business of entertaining the world.
Be Part of the Future of Entertainment with WhatsNextNG
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