Nigerians have expressed outrage over the casting of British actor Idris Elba as Okonkwo in the upcoming television adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s classic novel, ‘Things Fall Apart’.
While the project, produced by David Oyelowo and Amanda N’Duka under the A24 studio banner, is highly anticipated, many critics argue that local actors, such as Stan Nze, Uzor Arukwe, etc should have been cast in the iconic role. Concerns over authenticity and cultural representation have fueled the backlash, with many Nigerians feeling that a foreign actor may struggle to accurately depict the character’s heritage and language.
The controversy surrounding Elba’s casting has reignited a broader debate about representation in film. Critics point out that using non-Nigerian actors for such pivotal roles risks distorting the cultural essence of the story. Elba’s ability to portray an authentic African accent is also being questioned, with many referencing his previous performances and doubting his suitability to embody the depth of Okonkwo, originally portrayed by Nigerian legend Pete Edochie in the 1987 adaptation. Social media platforms have been flooded with mixed reactions, with some praising the project’s star power while others feel it undermines the richness of Nigerian talent.
Critics argue that Achebe’s legacy deserves local representation that fully captures the nuances of Nigerian culture, sparking a call for indigenous actors to lead the charge in future adaptations.
See some reactions below.
The only things fall apart I know, I don’t want to hear any weird, Will smith-wakanda sounding accent. https://t.co/BiwMtHPIzz pic.twitter.com/oQNqyIZjpL
— Emmanuel Eberenna Ugboaja (@ThaNnewiboy) September 26, 2024
During the production of shogun, Hiroyuki Sanada accepted the lead role on the condition that every Japanese character in the series must be played by a Japanese actor. Nigerians should speak up ffs. https://t.co/SqgC1coW9Q pic.twitter.com/MQMfPP1Hqp
— ChrisTougher (@kristurfer) September 27, 2024
Nigerian actors should be allowed to star in the film and participate in auditions. Let them be given the chance to authentically represent themselves and showcase the talent of Nigerian actors. Cast them! If you must tell a Nigerian story cast Nigerians!! We are GIFTED🙏🏾 https://t.co/NUwEmjzWkY
— Spaviba (@StephNecus) September 26, 2024
I can count how many Nigerian Igbo and even non-Igbo actors who’d do better than Idiris Elba in this role.
Why skip over the Nigerian actors for a Nigerian classic?
Could have used one of them as Okonkwo and if Elba must be there, use him as Unoka. https://t.co/ldZHMNQ5Ie
— Ikenna Nzimora (@ronaldnzimora) September 27, 2024
Whatever happened to Chiwetel Ejiofor??
Nigerian/African movie producers will sit here and our stories will be taken, mutilated, retold for profit, revised and shown to the world while we’re here trying to portray urban living.
Heard Michael B Jordan will be making Mansa Musa. https://t.co/uMopX837xt
— URBANE*WayWord 😎 (@justNERV_) September 27, 2024
