Entertainment

First Look At ‘Children of Blood and Bone’: Star-Studded Cast Brings Tomi Adeyemi’s World to Life.

Published

2 hours ago

17 July 2026

Photo: Instagram

Fans have their first official look at Children of Blood and Bone, as Entertainment Weekly released a collection of official images from the highly anticipated fantasy film. The photographs offer the first glimpse of the cast in character, introducing audiences to the Kingdom of Orïsha and the major figures who will bring Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling novel to the big screen.

The newly released images offer a closer look at the world of Orïsha and some of its central characters. Thuso Mbedu appears as Zélie Adebola with her distinctive white hair and simple earth-toned clothing, reflecting the character’s humble background. Regina King is introduced as Queen Nehanda, seated on an ornately carved throne in royal attire, while Chiwetel Ejiofor makes his first appearance as King Saran in dark ceremonial robes. Another image features Cynthia Erivo as Admiral Kaea in battle armour, reinforcing the character’s military role. The photographs also reveal wide desert landscapes, large palace interiors and African-inspired architecture that shape the setting of the film.

Photo: Instagram

Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, the adaptation is based on Tomi Adeyemi’s 2018 novel, the first book in the Legacy of Orïsha trilogy. Set in a fictional African-inspired kingdom, the story follows Zélie Adebola as she embarks on a dangerous journey to restore magic after it is wiped out by a ruthless monarchy.

Leading the cast is South African actress Thuso Mbedu as Zélie, alongside Tosin Cole as her older brother, Tzain. Amandla Stenberg stars as Princess Amari, while Damson Idris plays Prince Inan. Chiwetel Ejiofor and Regina King portray King Saran and Queen Nehanda, the rulers whose actions shape the fate of Orïsha.

Photo: Instagram

The ensemble also includes Viola Davis, Cynthia Erivo, Idris Elba, Lashana Lynch, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Temi Fagbenle, Bukky Bakray, Zackary Momoh, Saniyya Sidney, Diaana Babnicova, Pamilerin Ayodeji, Shamz Garuba, Kola Bodunde and Nigerian singer Ayra Starr, who makes her feature film debut. The cast has attracted attention since it was announced, bringing together award-winning actors and emerging talent from across Africa, the United States.

Children of Blood and Bone is scheduled to be released in cinemas on January 15, 2027, with Paramount Pictures distributing the film worldwide.

Photo: Instagram

With the first-look images now public, audiences have their earliest view of how key characters such as Zélie, King Saran, Queen Nehanda and Admiral Kaea will appear on screen. The images also provide an early look at the film’s costume design, production design and the visual interpretation of Orïsha ahead of its release.