Ayra Starr Debuts in Sneak Peek of 'Children of Blood and Bone' Adaptation

Nigerian singer Sarah Aderibigbe, better known as Ayra Starr, has offered a glimpse into her inaugural Hollywood acting role, courtesy of a behind-the-scenes teaser shared by director Gina Prince-Bythewood for the highly anticipated film Children of Blood and Bone.

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The teaser, posted on Instagram on Monday, provides a sneak peek into the film's production, with Prince-Bythewood announcing that the official trailer will be released on Tuesday, and the movie will hit theaters on January 15.

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Prince-Bythewood expressed her excitement on Instagram, writing, “So excited to share a peek behind the scenes of our incredible journey to Orisha, CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE trailer drops TOMORROW, and in theatres Jan 15,” giving fans a sense of anticipation for the upcoming film.

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Ayra Starr's appearance in the teaser, although brief, marks the first time fans have seen the Grammy-nominated singer in character, ahead of her Hollywood acting debut, which is a significant milestone in her career.

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The teaser is accompanied by the sound of Tems' hit single “Me & U,” adding a Nigerian flavor to the highly anticipated Hollywood adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi's bestselling fantasy novel, produced by Paramount Pictures.

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In previous interviews, Ayra Starr discussed the project, describing landing the role as a major career milestone, saying, “It’s a big deal, it’s my first movie ever, I’ve been in a movie, but I was in the movie as Ayra Starr, this is the first time I’m playing another character.”

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Ayra Starr also shared that acting has given her a newfound appreciation for the profession, requiring her to adjust to the discipline and demands of working on a film set, where she had to be punctual and work hard, saying, “I’m used to being a singer and being a diva on set, but with this one—in a movie—it’s not about you.”

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She further revealed that she had to adapt to the rigorous schedule of a film set, saying, “I got used to military time and being on set on time, working hard, I respect actors so much more now, their stamina is impeccable.”

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Ayra Starr confessed that acting had always been a dream of hers, despite initially lacking the confidence to pursue it, saying, “It’s something I have always wanted to do, I love music, but I always loved the arts in general, I had always been shy when it comes to acting.”

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She added that this project marks the first time she has acted on camera, saying, “This is the first time in my life I’ve been on camera, but I’m not singing; I’m acting,” showcasing her growth as an artist.

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The film, directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood and distributed by Paramount Pictures, boasts a star-studded cast, including Viola Davis, Idris Elba, Cynthia Erivo, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Regina King, Lashana Lynch, Damson Idris, Thuso Mbedu, and veteran Nollywood actor Richard Mofe-Damijo.

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The official trailer for Children of Blood and Bone is set to be released on Tuesday, with the film scheduled to premiere in cinemas on January 15, 2027.