7 Nigerians Who’ve Made a Name for Themselves in Hollywood

Hollywood has long been a dream destination for many, but it’s not just Americans and Europeans who are making waves. Nigerians are also taking the entertainment world by storm. 

From acclaimed actors to rising music stars, these Nigerians have carved out their own spaces in Hollywood. Their talent, hard work, and pride in their heritage are making them stand out and showing the world that Africa has a strong presence in global cinema and entertainment. Here are some Nigerians who have successfully made a name for themselves in Hollywood.

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Chiwetel Ejiofor is a name that rings a bell in Hollywood for all the right reasons. Though born in London to Nigerian parents, Chiwetel’s roots are proudly Nigerian, and he has always carried that heritage with him. His breakthrough role came with 12 Years a Slave, where his powerful performance as Solomon Northup earned him an Academy Award nomination. 

But he didn’t stop there. Chiwetel’s career includes impressive roles in films like Kinky Boots and Children of Men, showcasing his diverse range. He’s also made a mark behind the camera, directing The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, a film that tells a powerful African story.

John Boyega

Known globally for his role as Finn in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, John Boyega’s talent goes beyond the silver screen. Born to Nigerian parents in the UK, John has become a leading voice in Hollywood. 

His portrayal of Finn gave him instant recognition, but it’s his work off-screen that truly makes him a standout. He is an advocate for racial justice, a supporter of African filmmakers, and is actively involved in projects that focus on African stories. His pride in his Nigerian roots is undeniable, and his rise to fame is a testament to his hard work and authenticity.

David Oyelowo

David Oyelowo is another Nigerian talent who has made waves in Hollywood. Known for his exceptional portrayal of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Selma, David’s performance was a defining moment in his career. But he’s not just known for one role. His filmography includes roles in The Butler, Interstellar, and Queen of Katwe, among others.

Beyond acting, David is a vocal advocate for African representation in Hollywood. His efforts to push for more diverse stories are helping reshape how African characters are portrayed in films, making him a role model for many young Nigerians in the industry.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo is a force to be reckoned with in Hollywood. Although born in London, her Nigerian heritage is at the heart of her identity. She made her mark with an Oscar-nominated performance as Harriet Tubman in Harriet, a role that showcased her extraordinary talent. 

Cynthia is not just an actress; she’s also an accomplished singer and stage performer, winning a Tony, Grammy, and Emmy, all before reaching the age of 35. Her ability to bring powerful emotions to her performances is unmatched, and she continues to break barriers with each role she takes on.

Tems

Tems may have started her musical career in Nigeria, but her rise to international fame has been nothing short of phenomenal. Her collaboration with Wizkid on Essence became a global hit, and since then, she’s worked with some of the biggest names in music, including Drake, Beyoncé, and Rihanna. 

She co-wrote Lift Me Up for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, a song that resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. Tems’ success shows that Nigerian music is not just a regional influence—it’s a global phenomenon, and she’s at the forefront of it.

Folake Olowofoyeku

Folake Olowofoyeku is an actress whose talent shines both on and off the screen. Best known for her role as Abishola in the CBS sitcom Bob Hearts Abishola, Folake brings the first-ever Nigerian family to an American sitcom. But her journey didn’t start there. Born in Nigeria, she moved to the U.S. to pursue a career in acting. 

Her roles in shows like How to Get Away with Murder and Westworld have shown her versatility, and her work on Bob Hearts Abishola has earned her critical acclaim. She’s not just an actress, Folake is also a musician and sound engineer, proving that her creativity knows no bounds.

Gina Yashere

Gina Yashere is a British-Nigerian comedian and actress who has taken Hollywood by storm. Known for her wit and sharp social commentary, Gina co-created the sitcom Bob Hearts Abishola, where she also plays a supporting role. She’s been a trailblazer in comedy, becoming the first Brit to perform on Def Comedy Jam and regularly appearing on American talk shows like The Tonight Show.

Her journey from being a lift maintenance technician in the UK to a successful comedian and writer in Hollywood is truly inspiring. She continues to break down barriers for African comedians and women in the entertainment industry.