Lupita Nyong'o

Biography

Lupita Nyong'o, born on March 1, 1983, is a talented Kenyan-Mexican actress and author who has captivated audiences with her incredible performances on both stage and screen. Her journey in Hollywood began as a production assistant, but it was her acting debut in the short film East River in 2008 that marked the beginning of a remarkable career. Returning to Kenya, she starred in the television series Shuga from 2009 to 2012, showcasing her versatility and dedication to her craft.

After writing, producing, and directing the documentary In My Genes in 2009, Lupita pursued a master's degree in acting from the prestigious Yale School of Drama, honing her skills and preparing for the remarkable roles that lay ahead. Her breakout role came in 2013 when she portrayed Patsey in 12 Years a Slave, a performance that garnered widespread critical acclaim and earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, making her the first Kenyan and Mexican actress to win the prestigious award.

Lupita continued to shine on stage, making her Broadway debut in the play Eclipsed in 2015, where she delivered a powerful performance as a teenage orphan, earning a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Play. Her talent transcended traditional acting roles as she took on motion capture and voice roles in major film franchises like Star Wars and The Jungle Book, showcasing her versatility and range as a performer.

In 2018, Lupita further solidified her status as a powerhouse in the entertainment industry with her role as Nakia in the groundbreaking Marvel Cinematic Universe film Black Panther. Her portrayal of the fierce and independent character resonated with audiences worldwide, cementing her status as a fan-favorite in the superhero genre. She continued to impress critics and fans alike with her leading role in Jordan Peele's acclaimed horror film Us in 2019, further showcasing her ability to command the screen with her captivating presence.

Beyond her acting prowess, Lupita is a passionate advocate for important causes, including historic preservation, women's rights, and animal welfare. Her dedication to using her platform for positive change has earned her recognition as one of Africa's "50 Most Powerful Women" by Forbes in 2020. Additionally, her beauty, both inside and out, was celebrated when she was named the most beautiful woman by People in 2014, a testament to her grace and elegance.

In 2019, Lupita added author to her impressive list of accomplishments with the release of her children's book Sulwe, which quickly became a New York Times Best-Seller. Her commitment to storytelling and representation extends beyond the screen, as she continues to inspire and empower young readers with her impactful work. Lupita's talents also extend to narration, as seen in her Emmy-nominated performance as the narrator of the Discovery Channel docu-series Serengeti, further showcasing her versatility and skill as a storyteller.

Lupita Nyong'o's journey from a production assistant to an award-winning actress and bestselling author is a testament to her talent, dedication, and unwavering commitment to using her voice for positive change. With each new role and project, she continues to captivate audiences and inspire fans around the world with her remarkable performances and advocacy work.