Lupita Nyong'o
Biography of Lupita Nyong'o
Full Name and Common Aliases
Lupita Amondi Nyong'o, commonly known as Lupita Nyong'o, is a celebrated actress and filmmaker whose name has become synonymous with talent and grace in the entertainment industry.
Birth and Death Dates
Lupita Nyong'o was born on March 1, 1983. As of the latest information available, she is alive and continues to contribute significantly to her field.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Lupita Nyong'o holds dual nationality as a Kenyan-Mexican. She is primarily known for her work as an actress, but she is also a filmmaker and an advocate for various social causes.
Early Life and Background
Lupita Nyong'o was born in Mexico City, Mexico, to Kenyan parents. Her father, Peter Anyang' Nyong'o, is a prominent Kenyan politician, and her mother, Dorothy Ogada Buyu, is an advocate for social justice. The family returned to Kenya when Lupita was less than a year old, and she grew up in Nairobi. Her multicultural upbringing exposed her to diverse cultures and languages, which would later influence her artistic career.
Nyong'o's passion for the arts was evident from a young age. She attended the Rusinga International School in Kenya, where she participated in school plays and developed her acting skills. She later moved to the United States to pursue higher education, earning a degree in film and theater studies from Hampshire College. Her academic journey continued at the Yale School of Drama, where she honed her craft and graduated with a Master of Fine Arts degree in acting.
Major Accomplishments
Lupita Nyong'o's breakthrough came with her role as Patsey in the critically acclaimed film "12 Years a Slave" (2013). Her powerful performance earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, making her the first Kenyan and Mexican actress to win an Oscar. This achievement catapulted her into the global spotlight and established her as a formidable talent in Hollywood.
In addition to her Oscar win, Nyong'o has received numerous accolades, including a Screen Actors Guild Award and a Critics' Choice Movie Award. Her work has been recognized for its depth, authenticity, and emotional resonance, earning her a place among the most respected actors of her generation.
Notable Works or Actions
Beyond "12 Years a Slave," Lupita Nyong'o has starred in several notable films, including "Black Panther" (2018), where she played the role of Nakia, a warrior and love interest of the titular character. The film was a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its representation of African culture and its impact on the superhero genre.
Nyong'o also lent her voice to the character of Maz Kanata in the "Star Wars" sequel trilogy, further showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her role in the horror film "Us" (2019) demonstrated her ability to tackle complex and challenging characters, earning her critical acclaim.
In addition to her acting career, Nyong'o is a published author. Her children's book, "Sulwe," addresses themes of self-esteem and acceptance, reflecting her commitment to empowering young audiences.
Impact and Legacy
Lupita Nyong'o's impact extends beyond her filmography. She is a vocal advocate for diversity and representation in the entertainment industry, using her platform to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity. Her speeches and public appearances often emphasize the importance of embracing one's identity and heritage, inspiring countless individuals around the world.
Nyong'o's influence is also evident in her fashion choices, which have made her a style icon. Her presence on red carpets and in fashion magazines has redefined beauty standards and celebrated the richness of African culture.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Lupita Nyong'o is widely quoted and remembered for her eloquence and insight. Her speeches, such as her acceptance speech at the Oscars, resonate with audiences for their authenticity and emotional depth. She often speaks about the power of storytelling and the importance of representation, making her a powerful voice in contemporary discourse.
Nyong'o's legacy is one of breaking barriers and challenging norms. Her journey from a young girl in Nairobi to an Oscar-winning actress serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists worldwide. Her commitment to social causes and her ability to articulate complex issues with grace and intelligence ensure that her words and actions will continue to be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
Quotes by Lupita Nyong'o
I am very emotional about politics in a way that makes it hard for me to articulate things in a rational fashion.
I don't need to be so full of myself that I feel I am without flaw. I can feel beautiful and imperfect at the same time. I have a healthy relationship with my aesthetic insecurities.
I definitely intend to create my own work in the future so that we don't have to keep saying, We don't have work for black women.'
Part of being an artist is that you are always concerned you don't have what it takes. It... keeps us honest.
When I was younger, I was almost too afraid to admit that I wanted to be an actor.
My father was a professor of political science and also a young politician fighting for democracy in Kenya, and when things got ugly, he went into political exile in Mexico. Then I moved back to Kenya shortly after I turned one, and I grew up in Kenya.