Nigerian singer Sarah Aderibigbe, popularly known as Ayra Starr, has given fans their first glimpse of her Hollywood acting debut after director Gina Prince-Bythewood shared a behind-the-scenes teaser for the highly anticipated fantasy film Children of Blood and Bone.
The filmmaker posted the teaser on Instagram on Monday, offering fans a sneak peek into the making of the film while announcing that the official trailer would be released on Tuesday.
“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!” Prince-Bythewood wrote.
Although Ayra Starr appears only briefly in the teaser, the clip marks fans’ first visual look at the Grammy-nominated singer in character ahead of what will be her Hollywood acting debut.
The teaser is also soundtracked by Tems’ hit single “Me & U,” adding another Nigerian touch to the highly anticipated Hollywood adaptation.
The Paramount Pictures production, based on Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling fantasy novel, marks the singer’s first time portraying a fictional character on screen.
Speaking in previous interviews about the project, Ayra Starr described landing the role as a major milestone in her career.
“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,” she said.
The singer also revealed that acting gave her a new appreciation for the profession, saying she had to adjust to the discipline and demands of working on a film set.
“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. You have to be on set on time.
“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,” she said.
Ayra Starr further disclosed that acting had always been a dream, despite initially lacking the confidence to pursue it.
“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. This is the first time in my life I’ve been on camera, but I’m not singing; I’m acting,” she added.
Directed by Prince-Bythewood and distributed by Paramount Pictures, Children of Blood and Bone 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.
The official trailer is set to be released on Tuesday, while the film is scheduled to premiere in cinemas on January 15, 2027.
