Grammy Award-winning artists Tems and Burna Boy have taken on new roles in the upcoming fantasy film Children of Blood and Bone. The production announced that Tems will serve as an executive producer, while Burna Boy joins the project as an executive consultant.
The announcement marks another major Nigerian contribution to one of Hollywood’s most anticipated fantasy adaptations. It also strengthens the film’s connection to African storytelling ahead of its global release in January 2027.
Tems and Burna Boy Join the Production Team
The producers shared the news through the film’s official social media platforms. Although they confirmed the appointments, they did not explain the specific responsibilities attached to either role.
Tems joins the project as an executive producer, adding her creative influence to the production. Burna Boy, meanwhile, will contribute as an executive consultant.
Their appointments place two of Africa’s biggest music stars among the leadership team behind the adaptation. Paramount Pictures will distribute the film, while Temple Hill Entertainment and Sunswept Entertainment are producing it.
For Burna Boy, this is not his first production credit. He previously served as an executive producer on the Pan-African film 3 Cold Dishes, which premiered in 2024.
From Bestselling Novel to the Big Screen
Children of Blood and Bone is based on Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling fantasy novel, first published in 2018.
The novel debuted at number one on The New York Times Young Adult bestseller list and quickly became an international success. It later expanded into the acclaimed Legacy of Orïsha trilogy with Children of Virtue and Vengeance and Children of Anguish and Anarchy.
Set in the fictional kingdom of Orïsha, the story follows Zélie Adebola, a young woman determined to restore magic after a ruthless king orders the massacre of the Maji, people born with magical powers.
She embarks on the dangerous mission alongside her brother, Tzain, and Princess Amari. Together, they fight to bring magic back while Crown Prince Inan relentlessly hunts them across the kingdom.
Star-Studded Cast Brings Orïsha to Life
Director Gina Prince-Bythewood leads the adaptation and co-wrote the screenplay with Tomi Adeyemi.
South African actress Thuso Mbedu stars as Zélie, while Damson Idris portrays Prince Inan. Tosin Cole takes on the role of Tzain.
The impressive cast also includes Viola Davis, Idris Elba, Cynthia Erivo, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Regina King, Lashana Lynch and Amandla Stenberg.
Nigerian singer Ayra Starr also appears in the movie, making her feature film acting debut.
The combination of acclaimed actors and celebrated African musicians has generated significant anticipation for the adaptation.
Release Date Builds Excitement
The filmmakers have scheduled Children of Blood and Bone for release on 15 January 2027.
The film represents the first live-action adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi’s globally celebrated fantasy novel. With Tems and Burna Boy now joining the production team, the project continues to attract attention from fans of African literature, music and cinema.
Their involvement also highlights the growing influence of African creatives in major international film productions, further strengthening the continent’s presence in Hollywood.
The addition of Tems and Burna Boy gives Children of Blood and Bone even greater star power ahead of its theatrical debut.
While the production has yet to reveal the full scope of their responsibilities, both artists now play key executive roles behind one of Hollywood’s biggest upcoming fantasy films. Combined with its bestselling source material, acclaimed director and world-class cast, Children of Blood and Bone is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated releases of 2027.
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