Nigerian cinema—Nollywood—has long been a vibrant force in African entertainment, captivating audiences with compelling stories and talented actors. But 2025 marks an exciting turning point as Nigerian actors not only dominate local screens but also make significant strides on the global stage. From blockbuster Netflix originals to international collaborations and Hollywood debuts, these actors are proudly representing Nigeria’s rich talent and storytelling prowess worldwide.
In this article, we spotlight ten Nollywood stars who continue to raise the bar with their international projects and six diaspora actors of Nigerian descent who are shaping global narratives. Together, they embody the dynamism and growing influence of Nigerian artistry across continents.
Nollywood Actors Making Global Moves in 2025
Omotola Jalade Ekeinde
Omotola is not only a Nollywood icon but also a trailblazer making significant international strides. In 2025, she continues to captivate audiences with her role in the Netflix Original Blood Sisters 2, a series that has resonated globally. Beyond Nollywood, Omotola’s international presence dates back to her cameo on the American TV drama Hit The Floor in 2013, where she appeared alongside music star Akon, marking her Hollywood TV debut. She also starred in Ijé (2010), a Nigerian-American co-production filmed partly in the US, exploring themes of immigration and cultural identity. More recently, Omotola featured in Shadow Parties (2019), a film blending Nollywood and Hollywood talents, further showcasing her commitment to stories with cross-cultural impact. Through these roles, Omotola demonstrates a persistent dedication to bridging Nigerian storytelling with global cinema, solidifying her status as a truly international actress.
Funke Akindele
Funke Akindele’s star continues to rise, transcending borders with major breakthroughs in 2025. She made her Hollywood debut in Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey alongside stars like Tom Holland. Additionally, her film Everybody Loves Jenifa was released in over 30 countries, breaking box office records and proving her universal appeal. Her Amazon Prime Video film Finding Me further showcases her versatility and global relevance.
Lateef Adedimeji and Mo Bimpe
Lateef Adedimeji and his wife, Mo Bimpe (Adebimpe Oyebade), are two of Nollywood’s most dynamic actors, rapidly expanding their influence beyond Nigeria. While neither has yet starred in a traditional Hollywood production, their work is increasingly gaining international attention. They co-founded AL Notions Studios, producing films like Lisabi: A Legend Is Born, which has enjoyed Netflix distribution and premiered in the United States, marking a significant step toward global audiences. Recently, the couple secured a multi-million naira endorsement and partnership deal with KON Group, an international consulting firm based in Qatar, signaling their rising global brand appeal and opening doors for future international collaborations. This partnership highlights how Nigerian actors are not only conquering film but also attracting influential global business alliances. Lateef and Mo Bimpe’s blend of authentic storytelling and strategic international moves underscores their role as ambassadors for Nollywood on the world stage.
Sola Sobowale
Sola Sobowale continues to prove why she’s one of Nollywood’s most commanding performers, now with an expanding international presence. She starred in Namaste Wahala, the Nigerian-Bollywood romantic comedy that became a global hit on Netflix, where she played a strong-willed Nigerian mother navigating an intercultural relationship. Her role helped bridge two of the world’s biggest film industries — Nollywood and Bollywood — bringing Nigerian humour and heart to a global audience. In 2023, she followed up with a fierce and unforgettable performance in Shanty Town, a gritty Netflix crime series that became a pan-African sensation. Sobowale’s portrayal of Mama Dragun, a fearsome boss lady with a tragic past, resonated with viewers worldwide and reaffirmed her position as a cinematic force. From Lagos to global screens, she’s a living legend redefining what it means to be a Nollywood star with international clout.
Desmond Elliot
Desmond Elliot wears many hats as an actor, director, and legislator. His role in the Nigerian-US co-production Love Castle highlighted his ability to navigate and blend cultures through storytelling. Elliot’s advocacy for government support and involvement as a film festival juror demonstrate his commitment to transforming Nigerian cinema into a global force.
Jim Iyke
Jim Iyke has long been one of Nollywood’s most bankable stars, and his journey into global cinema is steadily unfolding. He made his Hollywood debut in the 2013 indie drama And Then There Was You, acting alongside American stars like Garcelle Beauvais and Brian White. That project put him on the map internationally and opened doors beyond Nollywood. In 2025, Jim is making waves again as the lead actor, co-writer, and executive producer of an upcoming Amazon Original film—a $2.5 million project spanning Atlanta, France, Ghana, and Lagos. This high-budget, cross-continental production signals his transition from just acting to taking creative control behind the scenes. With a clear vision for exporting authentic African narratives, Jim Iyke is positioning himself as a Nollywood heavyweight with a serious Hollywood playbook.
Stephanie Okereke Linus
Stephanie Okereke Linus has gracefully crossed from Nollywood into international film, carrying strong advocacy and storytelling wherever she goes. She made her Hollywood debut in the 2014 Western film Boonville Redemption, playing Doris, a former slave navigating post-Civil War America—a role that demonstrated her depth and range to international audiences. But it’s her directorial work on Dry (2015) that truly set her apart. The film, which powerfully addresses child marriage and female health rights, was screened at several U.S. and global festivals, including the Pan African Film Festival in Los Angeles and the Bentonville Film Festival, where it won Best Protagonist. Stephanie’s work blends cinema with social impact, and her upcoming cross-continental projects—spanning feature films and TV productions—promise to connect African stories with international talent. Whether on-screen or behind the camera, she’s steadily building a globally resonant legacy.
Jimmy Odukoya
Jimmy Odukoya made a notable Hollywood debut in the critically acclaimed 2022 epic The Woman King, where he portrayed Oba Ade, a powerful general from the Oyo Empire. The film, which stars Viola Davis and John Boyega, has garnered international attention for its powerful storytelling centered on the Agojie, an all-female warrior unit. Jimmy’s compelling performance marked a significant milestone in his acting career, establishing him as a rising talent bridging Nollywood and Hollywood. While continuing his pastoral duties, Odukoya remains committed to expanding his presence in international cinema.
Osas Ighodaro
Osas Ighodaro has steadily carved a niche both in Nollywood and beyond. In 2015, she made her Hollywood debut in Where Children Play, acting alongside Grammy winner Macy Gray and Brian White in a family drama set in the U.S. She had also appeared earlier in Cadillac Records (2008), sharing the screen with Beyoncé and Gabrielle Union, proving her international appeal early on. Back in Nigeria, she continues to shine in Netflix hits like Man of God and The Smart Money Woman, projects that have further amplified her global reach. In late 2024, she added “co-producer” to her résumé, collaborating with Burna Boy on 3 Cold Dishes, an international film project spanning English- and French-speaking West Africa. Osas is a modern-day Nollywood star who’s successfully crossing over, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes.
Patience Ozokwor
Known affectionately as “Mama G,” Patience Ozokwor is a Nollywood legend whose commanding screen presence has earned her iconic status for playing memorable “wicked mother-in-law” roles. Beyond her extensive work in Nigerian cinema, Patience has successfully crossed over into Hollywood. She starred in the 2012 film Turning Point, a Nigerian-Hollywood collaboration that tackled ethnic tensions and featured both Nollywood and American actors. More recently, in 2023, she appeared alongside Vivica A. Fox in the Hollywood movie Mother-In-Law, reprising a role that resonates with her trademark style. These international projects showcase her ability to bridge cultures with authenticity and flair, proving that her talent transcends borders. As Patience Ozokwor continues to captivate audiences globally, she remains a powerful symbol of Nollywood’s expanding influence in the world of film.
Diaspora Actors Leading Global Narratives
Beyond Nigeria’s borders, Nigerian-descended actors continue to lead global conversations and storytelling. David Oyelowo produced and starred in Legacy of the River, a UK-Nigerian co-production that premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2025. His dedication to authentic African stories earned him a Creative Impact Award, highlighting his role as a cultural bridge between Western cinema and African heritage.
Chiwetel Ejiofor further enhanced his international reputation starring in Netflix’s Pan-African, an epic about African unity. As an executive producer and advocate for diversity, Ejiofor influences industry structures and promotes nuanced African representation on the world stage.
John Boyega, known globally for his role in Star Wars, made his directorial debut with The Liberation, a drama centered on Nigeria’s colonial struggle, premiering at Sundance in 2025. In talks for a Marvel superhero role, Boyega continues to amplify African stories within mainstream entertainment.
O.T. Fagbenle showcases his multifaceted talent as actor, director, and writer with works like Homecoming, a BBC-Nollywood co-production streamed on Netflix UK and Africa. His documentary on the Nigerian diaspora further demonstrates his dedication to telling African stories across varied media.
Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje balances a Hollywood career with deep Nollywood ties. He co-created and starred in The Forgotten Kingdom, a historical series produced for Netflix and Amazon. Beyond acting, Adewale mentors emerging Nigerian talent and supports African cinema’s growth globally.
Finally, Hakeem Kae-Kazim bridges Hollywood and Nollywood with roles in the international TV series Black Gold and the Nollywood film The Royal Heir, both slated for global streaming in 2025. His advocacy for African actors’ representation and active participation in workshops and festivals reinforce his key role in globalizing African talent.
Honorable Mentions: Nollywood Legends and Past International Trailblazers
While the spotlight rightly shines on Nigerian actors currently breaking into Hollywood and global markets, it’s important to recognize the trailblazers who paved the way. These Nollywood legends and past international stars have made significant contributions to putting Nigerian cinema on the world map, inspiring a new generation of actors to reach for global stages.
Genevieve Nnaji stands out as one of Nollywood’s most iconic figures with a notable Hollywood presence. Her role in the 2019 British-Nigerian film Farming, alongside Hollywood actors like Kate Beckinsale, marked a milestone for Nigerian actors crossing into international cinema. Moreover, her 2018 deal with United Talent Agency (UTA) highlighted her potential to bridge Nollywood and Hollywood. However, Genevieve has chosen to focus on building Nollywood from within, emphasizing authentic African storytelling over full immersion in Hollywood’s system. Her dedication to growing Nigerian cinema continues to inspire many.
Joke Silva and Olu Jacobs are often regarded as the royal couple of Nollywood. Both have enjoyed extensive careers in Nigerian cinema and have appeared in various international projects, including British and American films and TV series. Their work has helped showcase Nigerian talent on global platforms and set professional standards that many actors aspire to. While neither has recently taken on Hollywood roles, their longstanding presence and respected status continue to influence Nollywood’s global perception.
These legends, to mention a few, laid the foundation upon which today’s Nigerian actors are building thriving international careers. Their pioneering efforts opened doors and created opportunities that make it possible for the current generation to shine on the global stage. As Nollywood’s footprint grows, the work of these past trailblazers remains an essential chapter in the story of Nigerian cinema’s rise.
Conclusion
The momentum of Nigerian actors moving from Lagos to Hollywood and beyond is undeniable in 2025. Whether starring in blockbuster productions, engaging in cross-cultural collaborations, or mentoring the next generation, these talents are rewriting the narrative of African cinema on a global scale. Their stories are not only entertaining but also serve as cultural bridges, showcasing the richness of Nigerian artistry to the world. As Nollywood continues to grow and intertwine with international film industries, these actors stand at the forefront of a truly global Nigerian renaissance.
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