Notably, two of the newcomers, Ayodeji and Garuba, were chosen through an open casting call held in Nigeria, a decision that highlights the studio’s commitment to authenticity.
Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, the film already boasts an impressive lineup, with Thuso Mbedu starring as the courageous heroine Zélie Adebola. Tosin Cole portrays Tzain, Zélie’s protective older brother, while Amandla Stenberg takes on the role of Princess Amari.
The production also features a powerhouse supporting cast, including Damson Idris, Lashana Lynch, Idris Elba (as Lekan), Chiwetel Ejiofor, Cynthia Erivo, and Viola Davis as the wise mentor Mama Agba.
Filming officially commenced in South Africa on February 17, 2025, with author Tomi Adeyemi offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse on Instagram. She shared a photo of a set chair captioned, “And… action.”
Prince-Bythewood co-wrote the screenplay alongside Adeyemi, ensuring the adaptation stays true to its Nigerian-inspired fantasy origins.
In an Instagram post, Prince-Bythewood emphasized the importance of the Nigerian casting call, stating, “While the story of Children of Blood and Bone is set in a mythical world, its roots are deeply tied to Nigeria’s history, traditions, and landscapes. By holding a casting call in Nigeria, I wanted to infuse the film with the country’s magic and realism, even within a fictional setting. I’m thrilled to announce that Pamilerin Ayodeji and Shamz Garuba, discovered through this process, will help bring this enchanting world to life.”
Paramount has set the release date for Children of Blood and Bone for January 15, 2027, with the film premiering in IMAX, promising a visually breathtaking and culturally rich cinematic experience.