Nollywood veteran Bob-Manuel Udokwu has voiced his thoughts on Hollywood actor Idris Elba being cast as the lead character, Okonkwo, in the upcoming television adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart. The series, currently in development at A24, has stirred conversations following the announcement, with Elba serving as both actor and executive producer.
In an interview with Channels TV, Udokwu expressed that while he has no personal issues with Elba playing the iconic role, he firmly believes that Nigerian actors are better suited for it. He highlighted the cultural depth Nigerian actors bring, given their understanding of the novel’s roots and context.
“I don’t have anything against Idris Elba as an actor, but I believe we have top-class actors in Nigeria who could portray Okonkwo better, knowing where the story is coming from,” Udokwu remarked.
However, Udokwu acknowledged the positive strides in collaboration between Nollywood and other international film industries. He even mentioned his involvement in a project that brings together actors from Bollywood and Hollywood.
The Things Fall Apart adaptation follows in the footsteps of previous versions, including a miniseries where Nollywood legend Pete Edochie played Okonkwo. While the choice of Elba has sparked debate, many are eager to see how the adaptation unfolds.
The Things Fall Apart novel is part of Chinua Achebe’s renowned African Trilogy, which also includes No Longer at Ease and Arrow of God.
