Production is set to begin in South Africa in the coming weeks for the highly anticipated film adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi‘s Children of Blood and Bone, featuring an impressive ensemble of acclaimed actors from across the African diaspora.
South African actor Thuso Mbedu will star as protagonist Zélie, a powerful young woman who goes on a quest to recapture a magical power taken from her people by an oppressive queen. “To know that I have the opportunity to work with some of the most amazing people as we tell this great story is truly humbling. I’m so excited. I’m so grateful,” Mbedu shared in an Instagram post announcing her role as Zélie.
The ensemble cast is a roll call of popular Black actors, most of whom have strong connections to their African identity and the continent. The role of Tzain, Zélie’s older brother, will be played by Tosin Cole, ofSupacell fame. Amandla Stenberg and Damson Idris will act as Princess Amari and Prince Inan, respectively, while Chiwetel Ejiofor stars as King Saran.
The rest of the cast includesEGOT royalty Viola Davis, Golden Globe awardee Idris Elba, Wicked superstar Cynthia Erivo, BAFTA winner Lashana Lynch, and Academy Award winner Regina King, who will star as Queen Nehanda.
Children of Blood and Bone, scheduled for a tentative early 2027 release, will be directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, whosaid she’s “honored and excited” to bring the best-selling fantasy novel to life. “Our incredible ensemble reflects the whole of the diaspora. This is where our magic lies.”
Per the book author Adeyemi, additional castingfrom the open call for Nigerian actors living in Nigeria will be announced soon.
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