Grammy-nominated Nigerian Afropop sensation, Ayra Starr, has revealed that her foray into the world of acting has completely reshaped her view of the craft and the people behind it. The “Rush” hitmaker made this revelation in a recent interview with CBS while discussing her acting debut in the highly anticipated Hollywood film Children of Blood and Bone, an adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling fantasy novel.
Ayra Starr, who has risen to global prominence with her energetic vocals, unique fashion, and powerful performances, said her first acting experience was both challenging and enlightening. She admitted that transitioning from the world of music, where she enjoys a more flexible routine, to a structured and demanding film set required discipline and humility.
“It [Children of Blood and Bone] is my first movie ever. You know, I’m used to being a singer and diva on set, but this one with the movie is like, it’s not about you. You’ve to be on set on time,” she explained.
“So, it made me get used to military time and working hard. I respect actors so much more now. Their stamina is impeccable.”
Although music remains her first love, Ayra Starr disclosed that acting has always been a hidden passion. Growing up, she had dreams of performing on screen, but a deep sense of shyness kept her from pursuing acting seriously—until now.
“Acting is something I have always wanted to do. I love music, but I’ve always loved acting. I’ve always been shy when it comes to acting. But this is the first time in my life that I’ve been on camera and I’m not singing. It was amazing,” she added.
The singer, whose full name is Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, also praised her co-stars and the production crew, stating that she learned a lot from being around seasoned professionals and global film legends.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Gina Prince-Bythewood, Children of Blood and Bone is one of the most anticipated fantasy films of the decade. It is based on the debut novel by Nigerian-American author Tomi Adeyemi, which tells the story of Zélie, a young girl fighting to restore magic to her people in the fictional land of Orïsha.
The film features a powerful, star-studded cast including British-Nigerian actors Damson Idris and Tosin Cole, as well as Hollywood heavyweights like Idris Elba, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Viola Davis, Cynthia Erivo, and Thuso Mbedu.
Ayra Starr’s role in the project has not yet been fully disclosed, but fans are already buzzing with anticipation following her CBS interview. The film is set for theatrical release by Paramount Pictures on January 15, 2027.
Ayra Starr’s rise in the entertainment industry has been nothing short of meteoric. Signed under Mavin Records and managed by Don Jazzy, she has broken multiple records as one of Nigeria’s leading female artists. From winning international awards to becoming the first Nigerian female singer to surpass one billion views on YouTube, she continues to represent the new wave of Nigerian talent on the global stage.
Her move into Hollywood further cements her status as a versatile entertainer capable of breaking boundaries beyond music. With her growing influence and expanding resume, Ayra Starr is quickly positioning herself as one of Africa’s most bankable stars.
Ayra Starr’s acting debut is more than just a career milestone—it’s a testament to her drive to explore, evolve, and push beyond the limitations of a single craft. As she prepares to add “actress” to her already stellar portfolio, fans and critics alike are eager to see what’s next for this multi-talented star.
Whether it’s through her chart-topping songs or her performance on the big screen, Ayra Starr is proving that she’s here not just to make noise—but to make history.