British Nigerian actors are making a significant impact on the global entertainment scene, celebrated for their exceptional talent and captivating performances. Born and raised in the UK to Nigerian parents, these stars embrace a rich blend of cultural identities. From proudly speaking Igbo or Yoruba to savouring Jollof rice and dodo, they remain deeply connected to their Nigerian roots while thriving within a British upbringing. This unique cultural fusion enriches their personal stories and fuels their creativity, enabling them to shine in the competitive world of film and television. Their journeys illustrate the power of embracing heritage while achieving excellence on a global scale.
From blockbuster franchises to critically acclaimed dramas, British Nigerian actors have become household names. John Boyega, best known for his standout role in Star Wars, and Cynthia Erivo, an EGOT nominee celebrated for her portrayal of Harriet, exemplify this star power. Chiwetel Ejiofor, a BAFTA-winning actor recognized for 12 Years a Slave, continues to inspire with his versatility—having landed a pivotal role in Steven Spielberg’s Amistad while still in drama school. Similarly, David Oyelowo, celebrated for his performances in Selma and The United Kingdom, has earned an OBE for his contributions to drama. Rising stars like Wunmi Mosaku, Wale Ojo, and Bukky Bakray—who became the youngest-ever recipient of BAFTA’s Rising Star Award for her powerful debut in Rocks—are further enriching the industry with their authenticity and compelling narratives.
These achievements not only celebrate their heritage but also pave the way for the next generation of talent. Rising stars such as Damson Idris and Tosin Cole, cast in Paramount’s highly anticipated adaptation of Children of Blood and Bone, demonstrate the innate talent that sets British Nigerian actors apart. Meanwhile, Deborah Ayorinde continues to showcase her range with standout roles in Riches and Them.
There are many more and this is what SCREENNOLLY’s Jimi D Baldheaded Guy profiles with this curated list of British Nigerian Actors who continue to shine while honouring their roots.
John Boyega
John Boyega is a renowned actor and producer, widely recognised for his role in the Star Wars sequel trilogy. Born in Peckham, London, Boyega discovered his passion for acting at a young age and honed his skills at South Thames College before furthering his training at the Identity School of Acting in London.
His breakout role came in 2011 with the British sci-fi film Attack the Block, earning critical acclaim and paving the way for his stellar career. Boyega’s journey has included roles in acclaimed films such as Half of a Yellow Sun and Detroit, a historical drama directed by Kathryn Bigelow about the 1967 Detroit riots. He also co-produced and starred in Pacific Rim: Uprising. His portrayal of Finn in the Star Wars trilogy solidified his status as a global star.
Deeply connected to his Nigerian heritage, Boyega proudly speaks about his cultural background. In 2024, he participated in Lagos’s 13th edition of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF). He also invited Star Wars co-star Harrison Ford to a famous Nigerian eatery, 805 Restaurant on Old Kent Road.
Boyega continues to be a significant force in the entertainment industry, and he is celebrated for his compelling performances and unwavering commitment to promoting inclusivity and representation in film and media.
Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo is a renowned actress and singer, celebrated for her exceptional talent and decorated with numerous accolades. She has won a Daytime Emmy Award, a Grammy Award, and a Tony Award, alongside nominations for three Academy Awards and four Golden Globe Awards. These achievements lead her to the coveted ‘EGOT’ status. She has also received an Oscar second nomination for her role in Wicked
Born and raised in Stockwell, London, Erivo proudly embraces her Igbo heritage from Southeast Nigeria and it’s very clear on her Wikipedia how she spells out her real name “Cynthia Chinasaokwu Onyedinmanasu Amarachukwu Owezuke Echimino Erivo”. Her performance journey began in childhood, acting on stage and appearing on television. However, her professional career took off after graduating from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) with a degree in acting. Her breakthrough role came as Celie in the Broadway revival of The Color Purple, earned her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical.
Erivo’s brilliance shines across stage, television, and film. She gained widespread acclaim for portraying Harriet Tubman in Harriet (2019), earning Academy Award nominations for Best Actress and Best Original Song. Her other notable works include Widows, Bad Times at the El Royale, and her Emmy-nominated performance as Aretha Franklin in Genius: Aretha. Erivo inspires audiences with her artistry, versatility, and dedication to excellence.
David Oyelowo
David Oyelowo, renowned for his portrayal of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Selma, is a second-generation British-born Nigerian who returned to Nigeria in the late 1960s with his family. He attended secondary school in Lagos before returning to London to pursue greater opportunities.
He began his journey in the arts by enrolling in a theatre studies course at City and Islington College, followed by a foundation course in acting at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA). Equipped with his training, talent, and determination, Oyelowo embarked on a distinguished career that spanned stage, screen, television and voice. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including a Critics’ Choice Award, two NAACP Image Awards, three Golden Globe nominations, two Primetime Emmy nominations, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and a BAFTA Award.
Celebrated for his captivating performances in the TV series Spooks, his portrayal of King Henry VIII on stage, his Voice acting in Grace Unshackled – The Olaudah Equiano Story and animated series Star Wars Rebels, and film roles such as A United Kingdom and Queen of Katwe, Oyelowo, who also played a pivotal role in Lee Daniels’ The Butler, was in 2016 appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his contributions to drama.
In addition to his acting career, Oyelowo has established a film company, Yoruba Saxon Productions, that focuses on telling African American stories amongst other narratives, further solidifying his commitment to representing diverse perspectives in the arts.
Weruche Opia
Weruche Opia is best known for her role in I May Destroy You, but she has also made a significant mark in British TV, film, and Nollywood. Born in Lagos to veteran broadcaster and former NTA News Anchor Ruth Benemesia, Opia moved to the UK as a teenager to pursue her education and broader opportunities. She attended the University of the West of England in Bristol, where she earned a degree in drama and sociology.
Following university, Opia landed a minor role in the TV series The Bill. Leveraging her cross-cultural background, she expanded her horizons by joining the Renegade Theatre Company in Nigeria. After a year, she returned to the UK to continue her acting career, making her mark with a role in the Channel 4 crime drama Top Boy and a subsequent appearance in Channel 5’s Suspects.
Opia rose to prominence as Cleopatra Ofoedo in the third series of the BBC comedy Bad Education and its spin-off film. She later starred in the Nollywood romantic film When Love Happens, directed by Seyi Babatope, earning a nomination for NEA’s Nollywood Actress of the Year. She reprised her role in the sequel When Love Happens Too and later became a cast member of the TV sitcom Sliced. She also starred in Slumberland, a fantasy adventure movie
Her exceptional performance in Michaela Coel’s BBC series I May Destroy You earned her a BAFTA nomination and a Black Reel Award. In addition to her screen work, Opia has also showcased her talents on stage, performing in Liberian Girl, Trial, and The Divide.
Chiwetel Ejiofor
Born in the East London area of Forest Gate to a Nigerian Doctor and Pharmacist, Chiwetel shot to the limelight at 19 when he was cast in Steven Spielberg’s Amistad. The award-winning actor with various accolades, including a BAFTA, two Primetime awards, and Laurence Olivia, also earned major prominence and an Oscar nomination for his role in Steve Macqueen’s 12 Years A Slave. He also starred in the film adaptation of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Half of a Yellow Sun.
Ejiofor’s impressive career spans film and television, with notable roles alongside Denzel Washington in Inside Man and American Gangster. He was also a part of the ensemble cast in the British romantic comedy Love Actually. His diverse filmography includes Dirty Pretty Things, Kinky Boots, Lockdown, Endgame, Talk to Me, and Four Brothers. In addition to acting, he made his directorial debut with the inspirational film The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, which he also wrote and starred in.
In recognition of his contributions to the arts, Ejiofor was honoured with an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).
Despite his success, Chiwetel rarely talks about his Nigerian roots due to a tragic way in which he lost his father, Arinze, in a car accident that incidentally involved him too. It had a profound impact on him suffice it to say that he still wears a facial scar from the accident.
Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje
Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje is a second-generation British Nigerian born in Islington. Unlike many second-generation children who return to Nigeria with their parents to spend their formative years and pursue their education, Akinnuoye-Agbaje was left behind in the UK with foster parents. This period was impressionable for the actor, renowned for his roles in Lost, Oz, and films like Thor: The Dark World and “Suicide Squad.” His early years with a white family in Tilbury significantly influenced his decision to document his life in a mini-biopic. Tilted Farming, it became his directorial debut starring Damson Idris, Kate Beckinsale, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, and Nollywood icon Genevieve Nnaji.
Despite undergoing a cultural identity crisis, Adewale emerged resilient, focusing on academics and earning a Bachelor’s degree from the University of London, followed by a Master’s in Law from King’s College London. While studying, he was introduced to modelling, eventually leading to a successful acting career. He appeared in various TV shows, films, and even music videos.
Adewale, who holds an honorary PhD, is best known for his roles in the 1990s HBO prison series “Oz” and ABC’s survivor drama “Lost.” His film credits include “The Bourne Identity,” “Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls,” and “The Mummy Returns,” among others. He also featured in music videos such as Grayson Hugh’s “Talk It Over,” Pet Shop Boys’ “Jealousy,” and Mary J. Blige’s “Love No Limit.”
Nonso Anozie
Best known for his roles in Game of Thrones, Cinderella, and Sweet Tooth, Nonso Anozie is a highly versatile actor who has showcased his talent across various mediums. Born in North London, Anozie has roots in the Southeastern region of Nigeria.
A graduate of the prestigious Central School of Speech and Drama, Anozie began his acting career with a role in a Shakespearean stage production of King Lear. His remarkable performance in Othello earned him the Ian Charleson Award.
Anozie made his film debut as the lead in Cass, where he portrayed the titular character. He soon secured a role in Guy Ritchie’s crime comedy RocknRolla. His other notable film credits include Ender’s Game, Cinderella, and Guava Island.
On television, he portrayed Samson in the History Channel’s miniseries The Bible and was a main cast member in the horror drama series Dracula. His exceptional performance in Too Sweet earned him a BAFTA nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
Anozie’s impressive body of work highlights his adaptability and depth as a performer.
Adelayo Adedayo
Adelayo Adedayo is a highly talented actress recognised for her roles in the TV series Some Girls and The Responder and the Netflix drama series Supa Cell. Born and raised in Dagenham, London, Adedayo balanced part-time training in acting with a full-time Law degree course at Brunel University.
Her acting career began with TV appearances in The Bill, The Sink, and M.I. High before landing her first film role in the thriller Sket. Her second film role was in Gone Too Far, a coming-of-age comedy by Bola Agbaje. Adedayo gained further recognition as a key cast member in the BBC Three sitcom Some Girls. She also starred in the ITV science fiction series Timewasters. Her portfolio includes recurring roles in the science fiction thriller Origin and the police drama The Responder.
Tosin Cole
Tosin is a versatile actor known for his TV, film, and stage work, most notably as the lead in the Netflix sci-fi series SupaCell. Born and raised in the United States, he moved to the UK at eight. After completing his A-levels, Tosin decided to pursue a full-time acting career. His first major role was in a theatre production of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. He then appeared in various TV series, including the BBC teen series The Cut and EastEnders: E20. Tosin later secured prominent roles in Hollyoaks and Doctor Who.
His film debut came with the 2012 feature Gone Too Far. He has since appeared in several films, including Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Bob Marley: One Love, and The Pirates. In 2024, Tosin starred in the Netflix sci-fi drama series Supa Cell, created by Rapman, solidifying his status as a leading actor.
Ola Orebiyi
Ola Orebiyi was born and raised in Nigeria and credits his rich cultural heritage for giving him the resilience to pursue his acting career.
A graduate of the Academy of Live and Recorded Arts (ALRA), Ola made his television debut in the series Upstart Crow. From there, he took on a range of film roles, including appearances in Reprobate, Limbo, Cherry, and A Brixton Tale, where he co-starred with Lily Newmark.
Ola later joined the main cast of the ITV family drama series Riches, created by Abby Ajayi. He continues to build a dynamic and diverse portfolio, demonstrating his versatility across television, film, and other mediums. In the early stages of his career, Ola also played a featured role in the Nollywood film Aramotu, adding an international dimension to his dynamic body of work.
Wunmi Mosaku
Oluwunmi Mosaku is an acclaimed Nigerian-born British actress. Born in Zaria, a city in Nigeria’s North Central region, she moved to the UK at a young age with her academician parents. Raised in Manchester, Mosaku attended prestigious institutions, including Trinity Church of England High School and Xaverian Sixth Form College, before completing her education at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), earning a BA in Acting. She was also a notable member of the Manchester Girls Choir.
Mosaku began her professional acting career on stage, debuting at the Arcola Theatre and performing in prominent productions at the Lyric Hammersmith and the Royal Court Theatre. Her first screen appearance was in the BBC Two series Moses Jones, which earned her the Best Actress award in a Miniseries at the Rome Fiction Festival. This accolade marked the beginning of a successful career, and she was named one of Screen International’s UK Stars of Tomorrow. She gained further recognition at the Toronto International Film Festival, where she was highlighted as one of The Seven Fresh Faces for her role in I Am Slave.
Mosaku’s talent earned her a BAFTA nomination for Best Actress and a BAFTA TV Award for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Gloria Taylor in the TV film Damilola: Our Loved Boy. She also won the British Independent Film Award (BIFA) for Best Performance by an Actress in a British Independent Film for her role as Rial in His House.
Her filmography includes roles in psychological horror films such as Citadel, Sweetness in the Belly, Call Jane, and Alice, Darling. Her TV credits feature appearances in Doctors, Father & Son, and Dancing on the Edge.
Sope Dirisu
Best known for his titular role in the period drama Mr Malcolm’s List, Sope Dirisu’s career spans stage, television, and film, and has earned him both BIFA and BAFTA nominations for his remarkable performances.
Born and raised in Edgware, London, into a religious family, Dirisu discovered his passion for acting during secondary school, which led him to join the National Youth Theatre. Despite his growing interest in acting, he pursued a formal degree in Economics at the University of Birmingham.
Dirisu’s acting journey began on stage, debuting in a Shakespearean production of Pericles, Prince of Tyre. Following professional training, he transitioned to television, featuring in shows such as The Mill, Utopia, Humans, The Casual Vacancy, Siblings, and Undercover.
On the big screen, Dirisu appeared in films including Sand Castle, Criminal, The Huntsman: Winter’s War, and His House, the latter earning him a BIFA nomination. His prominence grew further with a major role in the action-thriller series Gangs of London. Most notably, he played the lead character in the acclaimed period drama film Mr. Malcolm’s List.
Deborah Ayorinde
Deborah Ayorinde is an American-based British-Nigerian actress celebrated for her exceptional performance in the Amazon Prime horror series, Them. Born in Enfield, London, she spent most of her childhood in the UK before relocating to the United States to pursue higher education and a career in acting. Ayorinde earned a Bachelor’s degree in Film Production from Howard University, where she wrote, directed, and starred in a short film that won her the prestigious Paul Robeson Award for Best Actress.
Her acting career began with a guest appearance on the TV series The Game, followed by roles in Tyler Perry’s comedy series Meet the Browns. She made her feature film debut in Barbershop: The Next Cut and later secured a recurring role as Candace Miller in Netflix’s Luke Cage. Ayorinde also appeared in the hit comedy film Girls Trip, sharing the screen with industry heavyweights like Regina Hall, Queen Latifah, Jada Pinkett Smith, and Tiffany Haddish.
Ayorinde’s career reached new heights with her lead role in Them, where her portrayal of Livia Lucky Emory, a mother confronting racial terror and supernatural forces in 1950s America, earned her rave reviews and an Independent Spirit Award nomination. She also delivered memorable performances in the historical biopic Harriet alongside Cynthia Erivo and Janelle Monáe and appeared with Kevin Hart in the heartfelt comedy-drama Fatherhood. Her lead starring role as Nina Richards in the ITV drama Riches, created by Abby Ajayi, however, gained widespread acclaim, particularly within the UK’s African community, further cementing her status as a rising star in the entertainment industry.
Damson Idris
Damson Idris is an award-winning actor who has made a significant impact in both television and stage performances. Best known for his breakout role in John Singleton’s crime drama Snowfall. Idris was born and raised in Peckham, South London, to Yoruba Nigerian parents.
He pursued a degree in Drama at Brunel University and honed his craft at the prestigious Identity School of Acting, founded by Femi Oguns. Idris’s acting journey began on stage, with his first role in Ade Solanke’s The Pandora’s Box at the acclaimed Arcola Theatre. After several stage performances, he shifted his focus to television and film, appearing in series such as Miranda, Doctors, and Casualty. His first film role came in the crime thriller City of Tiny Lights.
Idris’s first major film role was in Farming, a poignant biopic based on Adewale Agbaje’s life, followed by a co-lead in the Netflix series Outside The Wire. His accolades include Best Actor in a British Film at the Edinburgh Film Festival, the Emerging Talent Award at the 12th Screen Nation Film and Television Awards, and Outstanding Lead Performance in a Drama Series from the Black Reel Awards. He also received an Alumni Award for Outstanding Contribution to Culture and Creativity from Brunel University.
If Damson weren’t acting, he probably would be a footballer of status. He once played with a dream of becoming the next Ronaldo but rather has settled for acting and supports Manchester United earnestly.
Adeyinka Akinrinade
Adeyinka Akinrinade is a gifted actress best known for her roles in the TV series Top Boy and Riches. Born in Leeds, West Yorkshire, Adeyinka proudly embraces her Nigerian heritage, which deeply influences her artistic expression. Her passion for acting began during her school years, inspiring her to pursue a career in the performing arts.
She gained recognition for her standout performances in popular TV series such as Top Boy and Temple. Adeyinka’s film credits include Surge and The Last Tree, both lauded for their compelling stories and her powerful portrayals. In 2022, she starred in ITV’s family drama series Riches, created by Abby Ajayi, further solidifying her status as a versatile actress. She also had a featured role in the BBC music drama series Champion, showcasing her ability to captivate audiences across various genres.
Samuel Adewunmi
Samuel Akinwunmi is renowned for his captivating performances in the drama series You Don’t Know Me and Angela Black. His contributions to the industry have been widely recognised, earning him critical acclaim and prestigious awards. Born and raised by a single mother in Camden, London, Samuel discovered his passion for acting during a school play. He later refined his skills at the Identity School of Acting, a renowned institution that has produced many of the UK’s top talents.
Samuel’s film debut came with a role in the critically acclaimed crime thriller The Hatton Garden. He secured a lead role in The Last Three, directed by Shola Amao, for which he won the Most Promising Newcomer award at the British Independent Film Awards and was nominated for Best Actor. His performances in TV series like Rising Tide and Camden Streets further established his ability to portray the complexities of urban life.
In 2021, Samuel starred in the ITV thriller Angela Black and led the BBC One adaptation of You Don’t Know Me, earning a BAFTA nomination for Best Actor. His versatility was further showcased in his stage debut in Trouble in Butetown at the Donmar Warehouse in 2023, followed by a West End debut in A Mirror at the Trafalgar Theatre in January 2024. With an impressive array of roles and accolades, Samuel Akinwunmi continues to be a prominent figure in British entertainment
Nneka Okoye
Nneka Okoye is a talented rising actress, widely recognised for her role in the ITV drama series Riches. She began her career with appearances in popular shows like Grantchester, Doctor Foster, Casualty, and the dark comedy-drama I Hate Suzie.
However, her breakout performance came in the children’s drama series Worzel Gummidge. Nneka also featured in an American sci-fi series, Halo before landing her prominent role as a main cast member in Riches, a family drama created by Abby Ajayi
Bukky Bakry
Bukky Bakray gained recognition for her debut role in the film Rocks. At just 18 years old, she became the youngest recipient of the BAFTA Rising Star Award and one of the youngest nominees for Best Actress in a Leading Role. Raised in Hackney, East London, she attended school in the area and developed her passion for acting early on.
She joined the Royal Academy of Dramatic Youth Company and trained with the Originate Actor Training programme at Theatre Peckham. Bukky was discovered by Rocks director Sarah Gavron while still in school, who cast her in the lead role. Her performance as a resilient teenager navigating life’s challenges without giving in to the welfare system earned critical acclaim.
Following her breakout role, Bukky starred in The Strays, a horror-thriller streaming on Netflix, and appeared alongside Simon Akinwunmi in the BBC drama series You Don’t Know Me. Her stage credits include Living Newspaper: Edition 4 and Sleepova.
An award-winning actress, Bukky was also featured on Forbes’ 2021 30 Under 30 list. She is reportedly in talks for a supporting role in Paramount’s adaptation of Children of Blood and Bone.
Abraham Popoola
Abraham Popoola was born and raised in Hackney, London and speaks basic Yoruba.
He began his career on stage, delivering a standout performance as Othello at the Tobacco Factory Theatre in Bristol. His brilliant portrayal earned him the prestigious Best Actor Stage Debut Award.
His television credits include roles in A Christmas Carol, The Great, Breeders, and Starstruck. On the big screen, he appeared in Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey, a festive fantasy musical by David E. Talbert. Popoola also had a featured role in the critically acclaimed black comedy Cruella and played a pivotal part in Netflix’s sci-fi action film Atlas alongside Jennifer Lopez.
Yetunde Oduwole
Yetunde Oduwole is best known for her role in the hit TV comedy series Meet The Adebanjos. Born in the UK to Nigerian parents, she moved back to Nigeria during her early years before returning to the UK to chase her dreams. From a young age, acting was all she ever wanted, so she set out to get the best training possible. She earned a Diploma in Performing Arts from Goldsmiths College London and followed it up with another diploma in Musical Theatre from the prestigious City Literary Institute. To top it off, she completed a Master’s in Musical Theatre.
Yetunde started her career with Tiata Fahodzi UK, starring in productions like Adulto Orgasmo at the Lion and Unicorn Theatre, where the Camden Journal praised her as a standout performer. She also shone in The New Boss at the Broadway Theatre and on a national tour of Pandora’s Box, earning rave reviews from The Guardian, The Stage, and Time Out.
Her impressive TV credits include playing Comfort in two series of E4’s Youngers and key roles in the Netflix thriller You Don’t Know Me and The Larkins at Christmas alongside Bradley Walsh.
Yetunde is also a familiar face on the red carpet, hosting various TV shows and events for Ben TV, OHtv, Afro Nollywood Awards, and Naija 4 Life. She’s racked up multiple Best Actress nominations from Screen Nation, BEFFTA, and ZAFAA, solidifying her place as one of the industry’s most talented and versatile performers.
Michael Salami
Michael Salami is an acclaimed actor known for his versatility in television, film, and theatre. Born in the United States and raised in London, he discovered his passion for storytelling early on and honed his craft at the renowned Stella Adler Studio of Acting in New York City. His career began with an appearance in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, followed by a memorable performance in the BBC series Just A Couple, which earned him a Screen Nation Award. He became a household name with his recurring role in the popular UK soap Hollyoaks.
In film, Michael starred in Adam Deacon’s Sumotherhood before landing a leading role in Netflix’s Supacell, created by Rapman. His stage work is equally impressive, with notable performances at iconic London venues such as The Old Vic, The Soho Theatre, and Lyric Hammersmith. He also starred in the touring production of Dial M for Murder, which toured Great Britain and Dubai.
Proud of his Nigerian heritage, which he considers one of his superpowers, Michael continues to captivate audiences with his dynamic performances. His diverse portfolio across various mediums has solidified his place as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Hope Olaide Wilson
Hope Olaide Wilson is a talented British actress celebrated for her captivating performances across film and television. Born in the United Kingdom and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, Hope’s diverse cultural background and passion for storytelling have been central to shaping her artistic journey.
She gained widespread recognition for her breakout role in Tyler Perry’s I Can Do Bad All By Myself, where she starred alongside Taraji P. Henson. Her heartfelt portrayal of a troubled teenager earned critical acclaim and marked her as a rising star. Hope’s filmography showcases her remarkable versatility, with standout performances in projects like The Last Ship, a gripping post-apocalyptic series where she played a determined survivor in Solace, a moving drama exploring themes of loss and redemption. She also shone in Black Coffee, a romantic comedy that highlighted her ability to transition effortlessly between drama and lighthearted storytelling.
In recent years, Hope has taken a step back from acting to explore new creative ventures, including production, directing and writing. She’s also exploring the IT world. Despite her evolving pursuits, her body of work remains a testament to her dedication to telling diverse and impactful stories, securing her place as a prominent figure in modern cinema and television.
Wale Ojo
Wale Ojo is a renowned actor best known for his roles in the TV series Meet The Adebanjos and Nollywood films like Phone Swap and Breath of Life, which earned him the prestigious AMVCA Best Actor in a Leading Role award. Raised between the UK and Nigeria, his multicultural upbringing deeply influenced his craft. He began acting as a child on the NTA TV series Why Worry and later studied Drama and Theatre Arts at the University of Lagos, and another degree in Drama at the University of Hull before honing his skills at the Drama Studio London.
Ojo’s career spans both British and Nigerian entertainment industries. He gained initial recognition in minor TV roles on shows like Behaving Badly and The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency before achieving widespread acclaim as the lead in Meet The Adebanjos, a family drama centred on a Nigerian-British household in South London. Capitalising on this success, he transitioned to Nollywood, starring in Kunle Afolayan’s Phone Swap and delivering standout performances in films such as The CEO, Half of a Yellow Sun, and Fifty. His versatility and talent solidified his position as a leading figure in Nollywood and beyond.
A seasoned stage actor, Ojo has performed in numerous Shakespearean productions and appeared at prestigious venues like the Royal Court Theatre. Known for bridging the gap between Nollywood and international cinema, he continues to captivate audiences with his powerful performances across film, television, and theatre.
Nikki Amuka Bird
Nikki Amuka-Bird’s path to acting began unexpectedly after a knee injury ended her dreams of becoming a dancer. Seeking an alternative career that still involved performance, she turned to acting and enrolled at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), where she discovered her deep passion for the craft. After graduating, she joined the Royal Shakespeare Company, marking the start of her acclaimed stage career.
Her theatre debut with the Royal Shakespeare Company included roles in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Tempest, and The Servant of Two Masters. Her portrayal of Viola in Twelfth Night at the Bristol Old Vic earned her an Ian Charleson Award nomination, propelling her into the spotlight as a rising star in British theatre.
On television, Nikki made her debut in Holby City and quickly gained recognition with roles in Spooks, The Line of Beauty, and The Last Enemy. Her recurring role in Survivors and acclaimed performance in the BBC Two adaptation of Zadie Smith’s NW, which earned her a BAFTA nomination, further established her reputation. In film, she appeared in The Omen, Cargo, and Almost Heaven, among others, continuing to showcase her versatility. Born in Delta State, Nigeria, and raised in Lagos, Antigua, and England, Nikki’s cultural heritage deeply influences her work, solidifying her as a prominent figure in the performing arts.
Steve Akuwudike
Born in Nigeria, Steve Akuwudike is a distinguished actor known for his extensive work across stage, film, and television. He was educated at St Augustine’s College in Kent before refining his acting skills at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA).
Akuwudike’s career began on stage at the Royal Court Theatre, where he made a strong impression. He also made his film debut as a priest in A World Apart. While primarily focused on stage acting, he has built an impressive portfolio also in film and television.
His film credits include Sahara, Likeness of a Stone, Beasts of No Nation, and the Nollywood film Eyimofe, which earned him an AMVCA nomination for Best Actor in a Leading Role.
His television appearances span across Virtual Murder, Roger Roger, Fortitude, In The Long Run, and Gangs of London.
Throughout his career, Akuwudike has demonstrated remarkable versatility and dedication, making a significant impact on both British and international performing arts.
Jimmy Akingbola
Jimmy Akingbola is a versatile actor best known for his role in Holby Blue. Born James Olatokunbo in Plaistow, London, he trained at the Academy of Live and Recorded Arts (ALRA), earning a diploma in Acting.
His career began on stage at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre in Nativity, followed by performances in Look Back in Anger and Blue/Orange, the latter earning him a TMA Theatre Award for Best Supporting Actor. After years of stage work, he transitioned to television, appearing in Roger Roger, Doctors, and The Crouches, before his breakout role in Holby Blue.
Akingbola has also starred in In the Long Run and played Geoffrey Thompson, the iconic butler, in the American TV drama Bel-Air, a reimagining of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. His film credits include Blood Cell, Spectral Hero, and Rogue Agent.
Akingbola has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including three Screen Nation Film & TV Awards, four BEEFTA wins, and a Nigerian Entertainment & Lifestyle Award for Best TV Actor.
Compiled and Curated by Jimi D Baldheaded Guy
