Lupita Nyong'o, Mexican-Kenyan actress

From her dual heritage spanning Kenya and Mexico to gracing Hollywood's biggest stages, Lupita Amondi Nyong'o has carved a truly remarkable path as an actress, author, and advocate. Born on March 1, 1983, in Mexico City, a place where her father, the distinguished Kenyan politician Peter Anyang' Nyong'o, was teaching, Lupita’s early life quickly transitioned to Kenya, where she was raised from the tender age of one. This unique upbringing instilled in her a rich cultural perspective that would later inform her compelling performances and global outlook.

An Educational Journey and Early Ventures

Lupita Nyong'o's pursuit of knowledge and passion for the arts led her to the United States for her higher education. She earned a bachelor's degree in film and theatre studies from Hampshire College, laying a solid academic foundation for her burgeoning ambitions. Her initial foray into the bustling world of Hollywood began behind the scenes, where she gained valuable experience as a production assistant. This hands-on experience offered her insights into filmmaking before she stepped into the limelight herself.

Her acting debut came in 2008 with the short film East River. Following this, she returned to Kenya, where she took on a significant role in the popular television series Shuga, which she starred in from 2009 to 2012. Demonstrating her multifaceted talents, Nyong'o also delved into documentary filmmaking in 2009, writing, producing, and directing In My Genes, a film that explored the experiences of albinism in Kenya. Driven by a desire to hone her craft further, she then pursued a master's degree in acting from the prestigious Yale School of Drama, an institution renowned for nurturing theatrical talent. This rigorous training would prove pivotal for the incredible roles that lay ahead.

The Breakthrough: 12 Years a Slave and Global Recognition

Soon after graduating from Yale, Lupita Nyong'o secured her first feature film role, a powerful and unforgettable portrayal of Patsey in Steve McQueen's biographical period drama, 12 Years a Slave (2013). Her performance was nothing short of transformative, earning widespread critical acclaim and deeply resonating with audiences worldwide. Patsey’s story, a harrowing depiction of resilience amidst unspeakable brutality, was brought to life with such raw emotion and integrity that it captivated the industry. This role not only marked her arrival on the international stage but also culminated in her winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, cementing her status as a formidable talent in Hollywood.

Expanding Horizons: Broadway, Star Wars, and the Marvel Universe

Nyong'o continued to showcase her versatility across various mediums. In 2015, she made a triumphant Broadway debut, starring as a teenage orphan in the critically lauded play Eclipsed. Her compelling performance earned her a nomination for a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play, further proving her command of both screen and stage. The same year, she ventured into the expansive galaxy of Star Wars, taking on the motion capture role of the ancient, wise, and enigmatic Maz Kanata in the sequel trilogy (2015–2019), a character that quickly became a fan favorite. Following this, she lent her distinctive voice to the powerful mother wolf Raksha in Disney's live-action adaptation of The Jungle Book (2016), demonstrating her ability to bring depth to animated characters.

Her career soared to new heights with her iconic role as Nakia, a fierce Wakandan spy and love interest to the titular hero, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe superhero film Black Panther (2018). This film was not just a box office phenomenon but also a cultural touchstone, celebrated for its representation and powerful narrative. Nyong'o’s portrayal added significant depth to the ensemble. She then delivered a chilling, dual performance in Jordan Peele's critically acclaimed horror film Us (2019), showcasing her incredible range and solidifying her reputation as a leading lady capable of commanding complex and challenging roles.

Beyond Acting: Advocacy, Authorship, and Enduring Influence

Lupita Nyong'o’s impact extends far beyond her acting career. She is a passionate advocate for various causes, actively supporting historic preservation and vocally championing the prevention of sexual harassment. Her commitment to women's and animal rights reflects her deep sense of social responsibility. Her influence was formally recognized early on, when in 2014, she was named the "Most Beautiful Woman" by People magazine, a testament to her grace and elegance.

In 2019, Nyong'o added "author" to her impressive list of accomplishments with her children's book, Sulwe. This heartwarming story, which explores themes of self-acceptance and beauty, quickly became a number-one New York Times Best-Seller, inspiring young readers around the globe. That same year, her captivating narration of the Discovery Channel docu-series Serengeti earned her a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Narrator, highlighting her distinctive voice talents once more. In 2020, Forbes recognized her as one of Africa's "50 Most Powerful Women," acknowledging her immense contributions and enduring impact across various fields.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lupita Nyong'o

Who is Lupita Nyong'o?

Lupita Nyong'o is a Kenyan-Mexican actress, author, and advocate renowned for her critically acclaimed performances in films like 12 Years a Slave and Black Panther, for which she won an Academy Award.

When was Lupita Nyong'o born?

Lupita Nyong'o was born on March 1, 1983.

Where was Lupita Nyong'o born and raised?

She was born in Mexico City, Mexico, but was raised in Kenya from the age of one.

What is Lupita Nyong'o famous for?

She is most famous for her acting roles, particularly her Oscar-winning performance as Patsey in 12 Years a Slave, her role as Nakia in Marvel's Black Panther, and her work in Us and the Star Wars sequel trilogy. She is also an acclaimed author of the children's book Sulwe.

What awards has Lupita Nyong'o won?

She is the recipient of an Academy Award, a Daytime Emmy Award, four NAACP Image Awards, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards. She has also been nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award and a Tony Award.

Did Lupita Nyong'o go to drama school?

Yes, she earned a master's degree in acting from the prestigious Yale School of Drama.

What other notable works has Lupita Nyong'o done besides acting?

Beyond her extensive acting career, she is an author of the bestselling children's book Sulwe, a narrator for the docu-series Serengeti, and a vocal advocate for women's and animal rights and the prevention of sexual harassment.