About
Lupita Nyong'o is a celebrated actress, known for her powerful performances in both film and theater. She is the recipient of an Actor Award, an Academy Award and a Daytime Emmy Award, as well as nominations for two British Academy Film Awards, a Golden Globe Award and a Tony Award, demonstrating her skill and versatility. Nyong'o has received immense critical acclaim for her work, establishing herself as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Career Timeline
12 Years a Slave Breakout
Nyong'o's film debut in 12 Years a Slave was a revelation, earning her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in her first major role. This unprecedented success immediately established her as one of Hollywood's most promising new talents.
Oscar Win Skyrockets Career
Winning the Academy Award at age 31 catapulted Nyong'o into the A-list, with major studios and directors eager to work with her. Her Oscar win led to lucrative endorsement deals with Lancôme and other major brands, significantly boosting her income.
Star Wars Force Awakens
Cast as Maz Kanata in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Nyong'o joined one of cinema's biggest franchises. The film grossed over $2 billion worldwide, elevating her to international stardom and securing her place in pop culture.
Tony Nomination for Eclipsed
Her Broadway debut in Eclipsed earned a Tony nomination, demonstrating her range across film and theater. The production also made history with an all-female creative team, enhancing Nyong'o's reputation as an advocate for diverse storytelling.
Black Panther Cultural Phenomenon
Black Panther became a global cultural milestone, grossing over $1.3 billion and earning widespread critical acclaim. Nyong'o's role as Nakia solidified her status as a major Hollywood star and brought unprecedented representation to superhero cinema.
Us Critical and Commercial Success
Her dual performance in Jordan Peele's Us showcased her remarkable range and earned universal praise from critics. The horror film's success demonstrated Nyong'o's box office draw as a lead actress and expanded her artistic reputation.
Black Panther Wakanda Forever
Reprised her role in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, which grossed $859 million worldwide despite the tragic loss of star Chadwick Boseman. The film further cemented the franchise's legacy and Nyong'o's importance within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Established A-List Powerhouse
Nyong'o continues to command major film roles and high-profile endorsements, maintaining her status as one of Hollywood's most respected and sought-after actresses. Her advocacy work and diverse role choices keep her culturally relevant and commercially valuable.
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Last updated: February 23, 2026