Nollywood veteran, Bob-Manuel Udokwu, has weighed in on recent news that Hollywood star Idris Elba has been cast to play the lead role of Okonkwo in a television adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s iconic novel, Things Fall Apart.
In a conversation with Channels TV, Udokwu expressed his thoughts on the casting, while also highlighting the capabilities of Nigerian actors to portray the complex character.
The adaptation, which is currently in development at A24, was first reported by Variety, stirring significant interest. The project will see Elba, alongside Gina Carter, serve as executive producers under their production company, 22Summers. However, the decision to cast Elba, a British actor of Sierra Leonean and Ghanaian descent, as the protagonist of Achebe’s Nigerian masterpiece has sparked debate in Nollywood circles.
“I don’t have anything against Idris Elba as an actor,” Udokwu stated in his interview. “But I believe we have top-class actors in Nigeria who can play the role even better, given their deep understanding of where the story originates from.” The seasoned Nollywood actor emphasized that Elba’s talent is not in question, but insisted that Nigerian actors, who are more culturally connected to Achebe’s story, could deliver a more authentic portrayal of Okonkwo.
Read more: What Lateef Adedimeji Said about Casting Idris Elba as Okonkwo in Things Fall Apart Adaptation
Udokwu’s remarks are reflective of a larger conversation surrounding the representation of African stories by African actors. Things Fall Apart, published in 1958, is widely regarded as one of the most influential African novels of the 20th century. Set in pre-colonial Nigeria, it tells the story of Okonkwo, a respected Igbo leader who faces the challenges of a society grappling with colonialism and tradition.
Despite his critique, Udokwu praised the ongoing collaborations between Nollywood and international film industries, noting that these partnerships have helped raise the global profile of Nigerian cinema. “The collaboration between Nollywood and other movie industries is a positive development,” he said, signaling that cross-cultural projects could benefit all parties involved.
Udokwu also revealed his personal involvement in similar projects, mentioning that he is currently working on a film featuring actors from both Bollywood and Hollywood. His participation in international productions showcases the growing interconnectedness of global cinema, especially as Nollywood continues to expand its influence.
For many, the question of who should portray Okonkwo is more than just about acting talent. Achebe’s novel is deeply rooted in Nigerian culture and history, and many believe that only those who share that heritage can truly capture its essence on screen. This isn’t the first time the story has been adapted. A 1987 Nigerian miniseries, featuring veteran actor Pete Edochie as Okonkwo, remains a beloved portrayal of the character among many Nigerians.
As production on the new adaptation progresses, it remains to be seen how Elba’s portrayal of Okonkwo will be received. But for Udokwu and many others in the Nigerian film industry, the casting choice underscores the need to ensure African stories remain in the hands of African actors.
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The debate over Elba’s casting may fuel further discussions on the representation of African culture in global media, but Udokwu’s comments reflect a broader hope that Nigerian actors will continue to have the opportunity to shine on the world stage.
