Lupita Nyong’o is a celebrated actress and filmmaker known for her groundbreaking achievements in film and theatre. She gained international acclaim with her compelling performance as Patsey in Steve McQueen’s historical drama “12 Years a Slave” (2013), for which she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress—making her the first Mexican and first Kenyan actress to receive this honor. Her portrayal not only showcased her remarkable talent but also positioned her as a powerful voice in representing diverse narratives in cinema.
Building on her success, Nyong’o made her Broadway debut in the critically acclaimed play “Eclipsed” (2015), which made history as the first Broadway play with an all-black and female creative team. Her performance earned her a Tony Award nomination and solidified her status as a versatile talent capable of dominating both stage and screen. She further showcased her range with a motion capture role as Maz Kanata in the “Star Wars” sequel trilogy (2015–2019), bringing depth to a beloved character adored by fans.
In addition to her film and stage work, Nyong’o has embraced innovative storytelling formats, such as voicing Raksha in Disney’s “The Jungle Book” (2016) and narrating the award-nominated wildlife docu-series “Serengeti” (2019). Her commitment to diverse representation extends into children’s literature with her bestselling book, “Sulwe,” which addresses themes of self-acceptance and identity.
Nyong’o continues to thrive, recently reprising her role as Nakia in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” (2022) and starring in the highly anticipated horror film “A Quiet Place: Day One” (2024). Her multifaceted career exemplifies creativity and dedication, making her an exemplary figure in the entertainment industry, inspiring audiences worldwide.