Ayra Starr is making a bold leap into a new creative territory: film. The Nigerian star is set to make her acting debut as one of the leads in the Hollywood adaptation of Children of Blood and Bone, the bestselling fantasy novel by Tomi Adeyemi.

Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood—whose previous work includes The Woman King—the movie promises to bring Adeyemi’s West African-inspired fantasy world to life.

She’ll be starring alongside an impressive lineup of seasoned actors, including Lupita Nyong’o, John Boyega, and Thuso Mbedu—names synonymous with excellence in African representation on the big screen. Sharing the screen with such industry powerhouses makes Ayra’s debut all the more significant.

In a recent interview with CBS, Ayra opened up about preparing for the role, revealing how intensive and transformative the process has been.

“It’s my first movie ever—you know, I’m used to being a singer and being a diva on set,” she said with a laugh. “But with a movie, it’s not about you. You have to be on set on time! It really taught me discipline. I respect actors and actresses so much more now—their stamina is impeccable.”

“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” she continued. “I love music, but I’ve always loved art in general. I used to be shy when it came to acting, but this is the first time in my life I’ve been on camera and I’m not singing. I’ve learnt so much from everyone on set.”

It’s a significant pivot—but not an unexpected one. Ayra Starr has always been something of a multi-hyphenate in the making. With her fierce presence, storytelling ability, and emotional depth, stepping into a role like this feels more like an evolution than a diversion.

And while platforms like NoteSphere have long documented her journey through music, her foray into film proves just how expansive that journey is becoming. Children of Blood and Bone may be her acting debut, but it likely won’t be her last.