Stella Damasus reveals why Nigerians struggle to land Hollywood roles

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Stella Damasus, an experienced actress, has discussed the difficulties Nigerian actors encounter in gaining recognition in Hollywood, pointing to preconceived notions about African identity and accents.

In an interview with Arrow House, Damasus claimed that Hollywood casting directors frequently mistakenly believe that all Africans, like Lupita Nyong’o, must have dark complexion and an East African accent, making Nigerian actors seem like “misfits” for particular parts.

She clarified, “Hollywood filmmakers insist on a particular ‘African’ accent that doesn’t represent us. Nigerians and Ghanaians sound nothing like what they expect. They also want Africans to be very dark — Lupita dark. For them, I’m neither dark enough nor light enough to fit any box.”

The majority of Nigerians who obtain big Hollywood parts, such as John Boyega or Chiwetel Ejiofor, were raised overseas and have American or British accents, according to Damasus.

She added, “Africa is not a country. It’s made of many nations with countless dialects and accents, but Hollywood still wants to box us into one outdated stereotype.”

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