Grammy-nominated Nigerian singer Ayra Starr has made her first on-screen appearance as an actress, featuring in a behind-the-scenes teaser for the upcoming Hollywood fantasy film 'Children of Blood and Bone'. The clip, shared by director Gina Prince-Bythewood on Instagram on Monday, offers a glimpse of Starr in character ahead of the official trailer release.
Prince-Bythewood captioned the post: 'So excited to share a peek behind the scenes of our incredible journey to Orisha. CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE trailer drops TOMORROW! And in theatres Jan. 15!' The teaser is set to Tems' hit single 'Me & U', weaving Nigerian talent into the Paramount Pictures production.
Teaser Reveals Ayra Starr's First Acting Role
Starr, born Sarah Aderibigbe, steps in front of the camera as a fictional character for the first time. Reflecting on the transition from music to acting, she told Legit.ng: 'It's a big deal. It's my first movie ever. I've been in a movie, but I was in the movie as Ayra Starr. This is the first time I'm playing another character.' She admitted the discipline required on a film set was a stark contrast to her music career: 'I'm used to being a singer and being a diva on set, but with this one — in a movie — it's not about you. You have to be on set on time. I got used to military time and being on set on time, working hard. I respect actors so much more now. Their stamina is impeccable.'
Ayra Starr Opens Up About Acting Challenge
Starr revealed that acting had long been a quiet ambition, held back by self-doubt. 'It's something I have always wanted to do. I love music, but I always loved the arts in general. I had always been shy when it comes to acting. This is the first time in my life I've been on camera, but I'm not singing; I'm acting,' she added.
Star-Studded Cast for Fantasy Adaptation
'Children of Blood and Bone' is based on Tomi Adeyemi's bestselling fantasy novel. The film boasts a stellar cast including Viola Davis, Idris Elba, Cynthia Erivo, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Regina King, Lashana Lynch, Damson Idris, Thuso Mbedu, and veteran Nollywood actor Richard Mofe-Damijo. The official trailer was scheduled for release on Tuesday, with the film set to hit cinemas on 15 January 2027.
Ayra Starr's Album Achieves Streaming Milestone
In related news, Legit.ng reported that Ayra Starr's album 'Year I Turned 21' achieved 375 million cumulative streams across major platforms within its first day of release, marking a significant milestone in her music career.
