The Oscars, Hollywood’s most renowned night, are a celebration of movies and a showcase for talent from all around the world. Among the stars who have graced this famous event, some Nigerians have contributed to the diversity and depth of Oscar history.
Despite the hurdles and barriers that typically come with pursuing a career in the entertainment industry, these Nigerian talents have not only endured but also excelled, achieving global acclaim. Their stories inspire not only Nigerians, but people throughout the world, demonstrating the power of passion, tenacity, and talent.
In this article, we will highlight five great Nigerian celebrities who have made an unforgettable impact on the Oscars, either as candidates or winners, emphasizing their contributions to the world of cinema and their role in encouraging future generations of African talent.
1. Chiwetel Ejiofor
Chiwetel Ejiofor, a British-Nigerian actor and director of Igbo origin, rose to international prominence for his performances in the films “12 Years a Slave” and “Doctor Strange.” He received a nomination for Best Actor at the 86th Academy Awards in 2014.
He is the recipient of various accolades, including a British Academy Film Award, and a Laurence Olivier Award, with nominations for an Academy Award, two Primetime Emmy Awards and five Golden Globe Awards.
2. Forest Whitaker
Forest Whitaker, a Nigerian-American actor, received the Best Actor Oscar at the 79th Academy Awards for his depiction of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin in the film The Last King of Scotland.
He is the recipient of various accolades, including an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, a British Academy Film Award, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards.
3. Tems
Tems is known for her unique blend of R&B, soul, and Afrobeat music. Tems was the first Nigerian artist to be nominated for an Oscar, but did not win. She was nominated for Best Original Song for her duet with Rihanna on “Lift Me Up” at the 95th Academy Awards.
4. Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo is a British actress, singer, and songwriter known for her work in film, television, and theater. She gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of Celie in the Broadway revival of “The Color Purple,” earning a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical. Erivo has also starred in films such as “Harriet,” where she portrayed Harriet Tubman, and “Widows.” Additionally, she has appeared in television series like “The Outsider” and “Genius: Aretha.”
Cynthia, born to Nigerian parents, has been nominated for two Academy Awards. Her first nomination was for Best Actress, for her performance in the film Harriet. She was also nominated for Best Original Song for “Stand Up” from the same film at the 92nd Academy Awards.
5. Sophie Okonedo
Sophie, a British-Nigerian performer with Nigerian heritage, received a Best Supporting Actress nomination at the 77th Academy Awards for her performance in Hotel Rwanda.
The recipient of a Tony Award, she has been nominated for an Academy Award, three BAFTA TV Awards, an Emmy Award, two Laurence Olivier Awards, and a Golden Globe Award.
