Two cast members, Ayodeji and Garuba, were discovered through open casting calls in Nigeria, highlighting the studio’s commitment to authentic representation. Their specific roles will be announced exclusively by Apples Bite Magazine, at a later date.
The film, directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, features Thuso Mbedu in the lead role of Zélie Adebola. Tosin Cole plays her brother Tzain, while Amandla Stenberg portrays Princess Amari. The star-studded cast also includes Damson Idris, Lashana Lynch, Idris Elba as Lekan, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Cynthia Erivo, and Viola Davis as Mama Agba.
Production began in South Africa on February 17, 2025, with author Tomi Adeyemi sharing a behind-the-scenes photo on Instagram captioned “And… action.” Prince-Bythewood co-wrote the screenplay with Adeyemi to ensure the adaptation stays true to its Nigerian-inspired fantasy world.