Nigeria has been the birthplace of many different types of entertainment superstars. From recording artists to the big screen, some of these people have known a long and fruitful career in the worldwide entertainment industry. Some of them are crossover stars who started out in small stages, and made their way to the top of their industries. There are some fantastically famous stars who have their origins in Nigeria. It takes a great deal of talent and dedication to break out of a niche, and to compete with stars from every corner of the globe. These are just a few of the household names who have done just that:
Sophie Okonedo
Sophie may have grown up in Britain, but her true origins are in Nigeria. She has had major positions that have made her a very serious player on the international acting circuit. A few of her more prominent roles include her parts in Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls, Dirty Pretty Things, and an Academy award nomination for Best Supporting Actress in Hotel Rwanda. Sophie continues to be a player on the world’s stage, and we can expect great things from her in the future.
Nnamdi Asomugha
Nnamdi Asomugha was born to Nigerian parents in 1987, and went on to become one of the greatest players in the National Football League in America. He is married to a prominent American actress, and continues to have a productive career in acting. This is one star who will always hold a special place in the latest news in Nollywood.
Tinie Tempah
Tinie is an international hip hop superstar who has his roots with his parents in Nigeria. He first made a name for himself in the United Kingdom, but has brought his talent back to his homeland on occasion. This is one star who is also well-known for his impeccable fashion sense, and that inspires a style that transcends both culture and time.
Henry Olusegun Olumide Adelo Samuel (Seal)
Seal is an international household name. Born to Nigerian parents, he went on to create one of the most prolific singer/songwriter careers anywhere. He has won four Grammys in America, and countless other awards from other countries. Seal is based out of Britain, but made his home in America while he was married to model Heidi Klum until 2012. He’s still known for both his powerful vocal abilities, and his addition to the songwriting industry.
Lemar Obeka
Lemar Obeka is another breakout talent who was discovered on the British talent show Fame Academy. His original sound combined with his songwriting capabilities quickly propelled him to stardom in the R&B industry.
This star is best known for her prolific role as ‘Suzanne Crazy Eyes Warren’ in the hit American drama Orange is the New Black. She has set herself apart in Hollywood with her amazing ability to method act, and to bring life to her character. This is one actress who has truly made a name for herself based solely on her amazing talent and personal charisma.
Hugo Weaving
Hugo is a surprising addition to this list because of his tight affiliations with Britain and Australia. He was actually born in Nigeria, and has become one of the most recognizable actors after his roles in both the Matrix trilogy, and in the incredibly famous Lord of the Rings. He continues to be an international star.
Zain Asher is a prominent journalist and CNN correspondent who was born in Nigeria. She has risen to a respected level in an incredibly difficult field for anyone to break in to, and continues to be a success.
sade Adu deserves that list