- Afrobeats star, Ayra Starr recently made Nollywood debut on Prime Video’s Original film Christmas in Lagos
- Her appearance solidifies the continuous fusion between Afrobeats music and the Nollywood industry
- TheRadar, in that light, highlighted 5 Afrobeats queens who have acting debuts in Nollywood
The fusion and transitions between the Afrobeats industry and Nollywood keep growing stronger.
In a recent development, Afrobeats sensation and one of the leading female singers, Ayra Starr made her debut entry into Nollywood.
Starring in the Prime Video original film Christmas in Lagos, she joined the list of Afrobeats stars who have ventured into Nollywood acting roles.
The movie, directed by popular director, Jade Osiberu, is set to drop in December for the viewing pleasure of fans.
In that light, TheRadar compiled a list of Afrobeats female stars and their debut appearances in Nollywood films.
- Ayra Starr
Ayra Starr is the latest Afrobeats female singer to make a debut in Nollywood. Starring in the upcoming film, Christmas in Lagos, fans are expecting to see her transition from singing to acting. Speaking on why she chose Ayra Starr, the director, Osiberu said Ayra Starr represented what it meant to be young, female and daring. The romantic comedy film set to be released in December follows the story of a newly heartbroken woman who believes her closest friend is the love of her life.
- Tiwa Savage
Regarded as one of Nigeria’s most celebrated Afrobeats female singers, Tiwa Savage made her debut with Shuga. The popular MTV drama series tackled issues affecting African youths. Tiwa Savage starred as Sade, whose role was commendable because of the authenticity and emotions attached to it. Tiwa has moved on to showcase her status as a multifaceted singer with her debut feature film, Water and Garri. She acted and produced the film.
- Simi
Simisola Bolatito Kosoko, popularly known as Simi, is also not only an acclaimed singer and songwriter. She had her debut appearance in the Nollywood film Mokalik in 2019. The film was directed by Kunle Afolayan. Simi gave an outstanding performance and has opened up about exploring the film industry alongside her music career.
- Yemi Alade
Described as ‘Mama Africa’ or ‘Queen of Afrobeats,’ Yemi Alade is another female singer who made a debut in Nollywood. She starred in Funke Akindele’s Omo Ghetto: The Saga film in 2022. Playing the role of Mogambe, the head of a drug trafficking gang, Yemi Alade, proved her seamless multifaceted nature as an artiste.
- Waje
Waje, born Aituaje Iruobe comes last on our list as an Afrobeats singer who has also debuted in Nollywood. She starred in the popular drama series She Must be Obeyed by Funke Akindele. Exploring the theme of bullying, exploitation and rivalry in the music industry, Waje played Xcite and her performance was powerful and memorable.
7 Nollywood iconic screen divas who look younger than their age
Earlier, TheRadar compiled seven iconic actresses who seem to always appear younger despite the advancement in their ages.
Most of them are legends in their own right and have seen generations. They are either in their forties or fifties but in reality, one can bet they look way younger than their age.
