Ayra Starr, Mofe-Damijo to join Idris Elba as cast of ‘Children of Blood and Bone’

The highly anticipated film adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling novel Children of Blood and Bone has announced new cast members, further elevating the excitement surrounding the project. Among the latest additions to the star-studded lineup are Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr and legendary Nigerian actor Richard Mofe-Damijo. Their inclusion marks an exciting expansion of the cast for the fantasy epic, which promises to bring Adeyemi’s captivating world of Orïsha to life on the big screen.

Directed by the talented Gina Prince-Bythewood, renowned for her work on The Old Guard and Love & Basketball, the film is shaping up to be a major cinematic event. The story takes place in the mythical kingdom of Orïsha, where magic once flourished but was extinguished after a brutal ruler suppressed it. At the heart of the narrative is Zélie, a young warrior determined to restore magic to her people and confront the oppressive forces that have enslaved them. Zélie is portrayed by Thuso Mbedu, who gained international recognition for her role in The Underground Railroad. Alongside her, Tosin Cole stars as Tzain, Zélie’s brother, who joins her in this perilous journey, while Amandla Stenberg plays Princess Amari, who seeks redemption and a way to change the kingdom’s oppressive rule. Damson Idris plays Prince Inan, Amari’s brother, who struggles with his loyalty to the king and his internal moral conflict.

The film has also enlisted an impressive array of actors, each bringing their considerable talents to this fantastical world. Among the notable names are Chiwetel Ejiofor, Regina King, Viola Davis, and Cynthia Erivo, who are all set to deliver powerful performances in key roles. Lashana Lynch, who became widely known for her role in No Time to Die, will also be featured in the film. But perhaps the most exciting news for fans of fantasy and action cinema is the addition of Idris Elba, who will bring his signature intensity and presence to the film’s gripping storyline.

Children of Blood and Bone is set in the kingdom of Orïsha, a land rich in tradition and magic, but torn apart by the ruthless oppression of a king who has stolen magic from the people. Zélie, who lost her mother at the hands of the king’s soldiers, embarks on a quest to restore magic to her land, navigating the dangerous journey with the help of her brother Tzain, Princess Amari, and a few unexpected allies. As they struggle to stay alive and overcome numerous obstacles, they must also face the internal tensions that threaten to tear them apart, including the growing conflict between Zélie and Prince Inan.

With the film’s production set to take place in South Africa, the filmmakers are ensuring that the setting of Orïsha will be vividly brought to life, capturing the essence of its fantastical elements while staying grounded in the rich cultural and historical context that informs the story. The decision to film in South Africa also underscores the film’s commitment to showcasing African talent and culture, both in front of and behind the camera.

Children of Blood and Bone is expected to be a landmark film, not only because of its fantasy elements but also for its rich cultural narrative and diverse cast. Adeyemi’s novel has been widely praised for its exploration of themes like oppression, identity, and resilience, and the film adaptation is expected to do justice to these important themes. As the world eagerly awaits the release, the film is set to make its debut in theaters in early 2027, promising an unforgettable cinematic experience that will resonate with fans of fantasy, adventure, and social justice alike.

With a stellar cast and an experienced director at the helm, Children of Blood and Bone is shaping up to be one of the most exciting film releases in the coming years, poised to make a significant impact on both the fantasy genre and the broader film industry.