Grammy-nominated Nigerian singer Ayra Starr has made her acting debut in the highly anticipated American fantasy film Children of Blood and Bone.
In a recent interview with CBS, the 23-year-old star opened up about her experience stepping into a new creative world, one that demanded discipline, punctuality, and a deep respect for the craft of acting.
A new experience on set
The singer, known for her chart-topping hits and energetic performances, admitted that her first film role was a big shift from the music world she’s used to. Unlike her usual studio sessions, where she calls the shots, film sets operate by strict schedules and teamwork.
“This is my first movie ever,” Starr revealed during the interview. “I’m used to being the singer, the diva on set. But this, this is different. In acting, it’s not about you. You have to be on set on time. That really changed my perspective.”
She added that she had to adjust to “military time,” a term often used in film production to describe the rigorous schedule that cast and crew follow. “It made me work harder. Now I have so much more respect for actors. Their stamina is amazing.”
Ayra Starr’s longtime love for acting
Despite her global fame as a music artist, the Cotonou-born explained that acting has always been a dream of hers. However, she had kept it on the back burner due to self-doubt.
“Acting is something I’ve always wanted to do,” she said. “I love music, but I’ve always loved acting too. I’ve just always been shy about it. This is the first time I’ve ever been in front of a camera without singing, and it was incredible.”
The Mavin Recordings star added that the experience taught her more than just how to act; it taught her to learn from everyone on set, regardless of their level of fame. “I learned so much from everyone, not just the greats,” she said.
A star-studded film
Children of Blood and Bone is based on the bestselling novel by Nigerian-American author Tomi Adeyemi. The fantasy tale follows a young girl’s journey to bring magic back to her oppressed people in the fictional land of Orïsha, inspired by West African mythology.
The film is directed by award-winning filmmaker Gina Prince-Bythewood, known for The Woman King and The Old Guard. The project boasts an impressive cast, including Damson Idris, Tosin Cole, Idris Elba, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Cynthia Erivo, Viola Davis, and Thuso Mbedu.
Starr’s involvement adds a new layer of excitement to the production, especially among fans of Afrobeats and African storytelling. While her specific role in the film has not yet been disclosed, her enthusiasm suggests a performance that fans won’t forget.
A Hollywood release awaits
The movie is set for a theatrical release by Paramount Pictures on January 15, 2027. It is expected to be one of the biggest fantasy releases of the year, combining African culture with Hollywood production quality.
As Starr embraces this new chapter in her career, fans can look forward to seeing a different side of the singer, one that shows not just her voice but her versatility as a performer.
“I’m proud of myself,” Starr concluded. “This is just the beginning.”
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