Meet the Cast of Children of Blood and Bone, Your Next Fantasy Obsession

Tosin Cole, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Damsin Idris, and Cynthia Erivo, the star studded cast of Nigerian descent of Children of Blood and Bone

written by Eavesdroppr's
13 min read
23 Jan, 2025

Children of Blood and Bone is finally coming to life on our screens! The highly-anticipated fantasy movie adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi’s best-selling YA novel has officially unveiled its all-star cast, and it’s nothing short of spellbinding. With a lineup that includes Amandla Stenberg, Viola Davis, Idris Elba, and more, this is shaping up to be the next must-watch fantasy movie.

The Journey of Children of Blood and Bone

Tomi Adeyemi’s Children of Blood and Bone took the world by storm when it debuted in 2018, topping the New York Times Young Adult Bestseller list and securing a seven-figure movie deal. The novel draws comparisons to iconic franchises like Harry Potter and The Hunger Games, but with a groundbreaking twist—it centers on Black characters and showcases a rich, African-inspired fantasy world.

Set in the mythical kingdom of Orïsha, the story follows Zélie, a young maji fighting to restore magic that was brutally eradicated by the tyrannical King Saran. Together with her brother and the king’s conflicted children, Zélie embarks on a dangerous quest to reignite magic and bring justice to her oppressed people.

Adeyemi’s inspiration was clear: “I wanted to write a story so good and so Black that everyone would read it—even if they were racist,” she told Entertainment Weekly in 2018. Her bold vision created a stunning allegory that explores themes of race, oppression, and resilience, making Children of Blood and Bone both a thrilling adventure and a cultural milestone.

Now, the epic is coming to life on the big screen, directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood (The Woman King). Fans of the book and fantasy lovers alike are already going crazy about the film, slated for release on January 15, 2027, in IMAX.

Meet the Magical Cast

Here’s everything you need to know about the incredible actors bringing the world of Orïsha to life:

Inan – Damson Idris

Damson Idris known best for his role in Snowfall steps into the shoes of Prince Inan, Amari’s brother. Tasked with hunting Zélie, Inan’s internal conflict between duty and morality makes him one of the story’s most compelling characters.

Tzain – Tosin Cole

Tosin Cole who stole hearts everywhere for his latest role on Supacell will portray Tzain, Zélie’s fiercely protective older brother, who supports her on her perilous journey.

King Saran – Chiwetel Ejiofor

Oscar-nominee Chiwetel Ejiofor (12 Years a Slave) will play King Saran, the story’s brutal antagonist whose hatred of magic drives him to commit unspeakable atrocities.

Admiral Kaea – Cynthia Erivo

Wicked star Cynthia Erivo transforms into Admiral Kaea, the ruthless leader of Inan’s army and a staunch enemy of the maji.

Zélie – Thuso Mbedu

The talented Thuso Mbedu who starred in The Woman King will star as Zélie, the courageous heroine from the village of Eloirin. After losing her mother during the brutal Raid, Zélie becomes determined to restore magic and fight back against oppression.

Amari – Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg, star of The Acolyte takes on the role of Princess Amari, who rebels against her family’s cruelty and joins Zélie in her fight to bring magic back to Orïsha.

Mama Agba – Viola Davis

Viola Davis, the queen of good TV, best known for her roles on How to Get Away With Murder, The Woman King will play Mama Agba, the wise and fierce mentor who trains young girls like Zélie in self-defense.

Lekan – Idris Elba

Idris Elba (Luther) will bring gravitas to the role of Lekan, the last high priest of the maji who helps Zélie unlock her potential.

Jumoke – Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch (The Woman King, Captain Marvel) will portray Jumoke, Zélie’s late mother and a member of the powerful Ikú Clan, who could manipulate the spirits of the dead.

Queen Nehanda – Regina King (In Talks)

Regina King (Watchmen) is in negotiations to join the cast as Queen Nehanda, a cunning and cold-hearted ruler who shares her husband’s disdain for magic.

Folake – Diaana Babnicova (In Talks)

Young Diaana Babnicova (Sound of Hope) is in talks to play Folake, a rule-abiding divîner waiting to awaken her magical powers.

Binta – Bukky Bakray (In Talks)

Bukky Bakray (Rocks) may appear as Binta, Amari’s loyal best friend and palace servant.

In an exciting nod to the story’s roots, the production will include more open casting calls for Nigerian actors. Filming begins soon in South Africa, adding authenticity to the film’s African fantasy setting.

Why Children of Blood and Bone Will Be the Next Fantasy Phenomenon

With its all-Black cast, powerful themes, and breathtaking world-building, Children of Blood and Bone is more than just a movie—it’s a cultural movement. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Tomi Adeyemi’s novels or new to the magic of Orïsha, this film will surely be an unforgettable cinematic experience, fingers crossed.

Mark your calendars for January 15, 2027, and get ready to immerse yourself in the epic world of Children of Blood and Bone!