Lupita Nyong’o is a Kenyan-Mexican actress and film director who gained international recognition for her breakthrough role as Patsey in the 2013 film “12 Years a Slave.” She was born on March 1, 1983, in Mexico City, Mexico, to Kenyan parents. Her full name is Lupita Amondi Nyong’o.
Nyong’o grew up in Nairobi, Kenya, where her family moved shortly after her birth. She had a keen interest in the arts from a young age and participated in school plays and performances. Her parents, who are both involved in the political and artistic fields, supported her passion for acting.
She completed her primary and secondary education in Kenya before moving to the United States to pursue higher education. Nyong’o attended Hampshire College in Massachusetts, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in film and theater studies. She then went on to pursue a master’s degree in acting from the Yale School of Drama.
In 2013, Nyong’o made her feature film debut in Steve McQueen’s critically acclaimed historical drama “12 Years a Slave.” Her portrayal of Patsey, a young enslaved woman, earned her widespread acclaim and numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. This achievement made her the first Kenyan actress and the first Mexican-born actress to win an Academy Award.
Following her success in “12 Years a Slave,” Nyong’o continued to establish herself as a talented actress in both independent and mainstream films. She appeared in movies such as “Non-Stop” (2014), “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” (2015), “The Jungle Book” (2016), and “Black Panther” (2018), among others. Her performance in “Black Panther” as Nakia, a Wakandan spy, further solidified her status as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Apart from her acting career, Nyong’o is also involved in humanitarian and social causes. She has spoken out against colorism and advocated for representation and diversity in the media. Nyong’o has been recognized for her fashion sense and has become a prominent figure in the fashion industry as well.
In addition to acting, Nyong’o has ventured into directing. She made her directorial debut with the documentary film “In My Genes” in 2009, which explores the experiences of people with albinism in Kenya.
Lupita Nyong’o’s talent, versatility, and advocacy work have made her one of the most respected and influential figures in the film industry. Her contributions to cinema and her commitment to raising awareness about important issues have earned her a significant place in the entertainment world.
Is Lupita Nyong’o married?
No! The multi-talented actor (an asset for Kenya) has not revealed whether she is a wife or has gotten married anywhere; not in an interview or in a post on her social media accounts. Also, there hasn’t been any proof to confirm if she has ever had a private wedding elsewhere. Hence, she has no husband as of 2023.
However, the ‘Black Panther actress is in a serious relationship with her current lover. In case you have been living under a rock, you may not know that the Kenyan-Mexican beauty found her match in a special someone — and is not shy about sharing about them on her social media feed, making us all blissfully pleased.
Selema is related to South African musician Hugh Masekela.
Another fascinating thing about Salema is that he is the son of the late Hugh Masekela, an iconic South African jazz musician who became one of the most influential figures in the music world. Beyond being a super-talented trumpeter and composer, he was also a renowned activist who, like Nigeria’s Fela Kuti, used his popular music to advocate for social justice and speak out against apartheid in South Africa.
It looks like Lupita and Salema are really in sync. In addition to understanding their respective industries, they also both have the connection of their African roots, and we just love to see it!
Did Lupita and Janelle Monáe ever date?
Although Lupita is in love, there was once a time when rumors were swirling around about her involvement with Janelle Monáe, and apparently, those rumors were just rumors. Lupita recently addressed the rumors: “She has magnetism that they were obviously picking up on,” Lupita said. “She is that enigmatic. I was not surprised. And I don’t mind being associated with her in any capacity.”
Lupita also shared that when she first became a Hollywood star, Janelle was one of the people who embraced her authentically, and that sparked their years-long friendship.
“This world is still extremely new to me and unbelievable,” Lupita said. “[Janelle] came up to me and just gave me the realest hug. I think we may have swayed to the music. She was just like, ‘I’m so proud of you, and just thank you for being you.’” Aw!