Afrobeats Star Ayra Starr Makes Hollywood Debut in Children of Blood and Bone
GeokHub
Contributing Writer
Ayra Starr, the award-winning Nigerian singer behind hits like Rush and Sabi Girl, is set to make her acting debut in the highly anticipated Hollywood adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi’s best-selling fantasy novel Children of Blood and Bone .
The film, helmed by acclaimed director Gina Prince‑Bythewood, features a star-studded cast including Viola Davis, Idris Elba, Cynthia Erivo, Thuso Mbedu, and Amandla Stenberg. Ayra’s casting adds a powerful Afrobeats presence to the ensemble, further amplifying the film’s celebration of African talent and storytelling.
In a recent CBS Mornings interview, Ayra admitted the transition from music to film has been both challenging and rewarding:
“This is my very first movie role… you have to be on time, stay focused, and work as part of a larger team”.
She went on to praise her co-stars, saying they’ve been a “masterclass in stamina and discipline,” and that she was inspired by everyone on set, “even the teenagers”.
Film Overview
Children of Blood and Bone follows Zélie Adebola (Thuso Mbedu) on her journey to restore magic to her oppressed homeland of Orïsha. The cast includes:
- Tosin Cole as Tzain
- Amandla Stenberg as Princess Amari
- Damson Idris as Prince Inan
- Viola Davis, Cynthia Erivo, Idris Elba, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Lashana Lynch, Regina King, alongside Ayra Starr, Richard Mofe-Damijo, and others.
Directed by Gina Prince‑Bythewood and co-written with Tomi Adeyemi, the film began principal photography in South Africa and Lagos earlier this year and is set for wide release on January 15, 2027, including IMAX.
Ayra’s casting marks a significant step in her evolving career—transitioning from chart-topping music producer to Hollywood acting debutante. Her move underscores the growing influence of Afrobeats culture and African voices in global entertainment.
Fans and critics alike are celebrating this milestone, awaiting how Ayra’s presence will enrich the film’s vibrant depiction of West African mythology and storytelling.
