Ayra Starr makes first appearance in 'Children of Blood and Bone' teaser

Nigerian music sensation Ayra Starr has offered fans their first glimpse of her Hollywood acting debut in a behind-the-scenes teaser for the upcoming fantasy film 'Children of Blood and Bone.' Director Gina Prince-Bythewood released the teaser on Instagram, revealing snippets from the film's production and announcing that the official trailer would drop the following day.

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So excited to share a peek behind the scenes of our incredible journey to Orisha. CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE trailer drops TOMORROW! And in theatres Jan. 15!

"So excited to share a peek behind the scenes of our incredible journey to Orisha. CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE trailer drops TOMORROW! And in theatres Jan. 15!" Prince-Bythewood wrote. Although Ayra Starr appears only briefly, this marks the first visual confirmation of the Grammy-nominated singer portraying a fictional character on screen, a significant milestone in her career.

The film adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi's bestselling fantasy novel is a Paramount Pictures production. The teaser also features Tems' hit single 'Me & U,' further highlighting Nigerian talent in the project. Ayra Starr has previously described landing the role as a major career achievement, noting it's her first time playing a character other than herself.

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It’s a big deal. It’s my first movie ever. I’ve been in a movie, but I was in the movie as Ayra Starr. This is the first time I’m playing another character.

She shared that the experience of acting gave her a newfound respect for actors, requiring adjustments to the discipline and demands of a film set. "I'm used to being a singer and being a diva on set, but with this one, in a movie, it's not about you. You have to be on set on time," she explained, adding that she now has immense respect for actors' stamina. The film boasts an ensemble cast including Viola Davis, Idris Elba, Cynthia Erivo, and Chiwetel Ejiofor, among others. The official trailer is set for release on Tuesday, with the film premiering on January 15, 2027.

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I’m used to being a singer and being a diva on set, but with this one, in a movie, it's not about you. You have to be on set on time. I got used to military time and being on set on time, working hard. I respect actors so much more now. Their stamina is impeccable.