Afrobeats Star Ayra Starr Takes Hollywood by Storm with Acting Debut in Children of Blood and Bone

Nigerian singer-songwriter Ayra Starr is making a bold leap from music to cinema, marking her Hollywood acting debut in the highly anticipated adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling novel, Children of Blood and Bone.

The fantasy epic—directed by Gina Prince‑Bythewood is set to hit theaters on January 15, 2027, bringing a richly imagined West-African inspired world to global audiences.

Known for her chart-topping hits like “Rush” and “Bloody Samaritan,” Ayra Starr has rapidly risen as a leading voice in Afropop and alté since her debut in 2021 and is set to expand her creative horizons. While specific details about her role remain under wraps, sources describe her character as part of a dynamic ensemble central to the plot.

Speaking in a recent interview with CBS Mornings, the singer admitted she had long harboured a desire to act but had been held back by shyness:

“I’ve always been shy when it comes to acting, but this is the first time in my life that I’ve been on camera and I’m not singing,” she revealed.

Ayra joins a powerful African and diaspora cast, including Thuso Mbedu (playing lead Zélie), Amandla Stenberg, Damson Idris, Tosin Cole, Viola Davis, Cynthia Erivo, Idris Elba, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Lashana Lynch, and Regina King.

The singer described the experience as a major learning curve and an inspiring journey, crediting not just the star-studded cast but also the younger actors on set for leaving a lasting impact on her. “I learned so much from everybody on set, not even just the greats. Even the 16-year-olds, the 14-year-olds on set, it was so inspiring just watching them,” she added.

She also spoke highly of her co-stars, which include celebrated international actors Idris Elba, Viola Davis, and Cynthia Erivo, calling the project a masterclass in stamina and discipline. “Working with actors of that calibre taught me so much. It wasn’t just fun, it was transformational,” she said.

Set in the mythical kingdom of Orïsha, Children of Blood and Bone follows a young woman’s quest to restore magic to her now-oppressed people. It’s a tale steeped in West African mythology, exploring themes of heritage, resilience, and the more complex layers of power and oppression. And with Gina Prince‑Bythewood at the helm and author Tomi Adeyemi co-writing the script, audiences can expect a visually stunning and culturally authentic narrative that resonates with both global and African viewers.

As Children of Blood and Bone prepares to premiere in January 2027, audiences will be watching not just for its magical spectacle, but for the arrival of Ayra Starr as a promising new cinematic force.