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The upcoming film adaptation of Children of Blood and Bone has ignited heated debates in Nigeria, with fans voicing disappointment over the exclusion of local actors in key roles.
Based on Tomi Adeyemi’s acclaimed novel inspired by Nigerian culture and mythology, the film’s casting announcement revealed a lineup of international stars, including Idris Elba, Viola Davis, and Damson Idris, with only one Nigerian actor, Tosin Cole, making the cut.
This decision has sparked widespread backlash on social media, where Nigerians have criticized the production for failing to authentically represent the culture it aims to showcase.
Many argue that the exclusion of young Nigerian talent undermines the film’s connection to its roots, especially after a widely publicized open casting call that promised opportunities for local actors.
Critics also questioned the choice to cast older, established actors in roles meant for younger characters, claiming it strays from the novel’s original vision.
Comparisons have been drawn to other Hollywood productions accused of sidelining African voices in favor of global stars, further fueling frustration about the lack of representation in stories deeply tied to African heritage.
While some defend the casting as a move to ensure the film’s commercial success, others see it as a missed opportunity to elevate emerging Nigerian talent on a global stage.
With the controversy gaining traction, all eyes are on how the film’s creators will respond to calls for greater inclusivity and authenticity.
See the post below:
Viola Davis, Cynthia Erivo, Idris Elba, Lashana Lynch and Chiwetel Ejiofor join Thuso Mbedu, Amandla Stenberg, Damson Idris and Tosin Cole in the film adaptation of ‘CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE’ from Gina Prince-Bythewood. pic.twitter.com/FBgLGkzIIe
— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) January 22, 2025
The cast of children of blood and bone is such a joke don’t piss me off tomi 😤
— the life of job (@_amakamadu_) January 22, 2025
Literally only one of your cast members are Nigerian, after you specifically sought out to have an open casting call for the film pic.twitter.com/c0zuo7ARyc
children of blood and bone becoming a movie was supposed to do for young black actors what harry potter, hunger games, stranger things, twilight and all the other young white main cast movies and shows did for their actors but oh well
— ryan || nocturne spoilers (@caitviscent) January 23, 2025
Source: NB
#ChildrenofBloodandBone
#TosinCole
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