Nigeria – Bob Manuel Reacts to Idris Elba’s Casting as Okonkwo in Things Fall Apart

By Utebor Paul, Nigeria

Popular Nollywood actor, Bob Manuel Udoku, has reacted to the information that British actor, Idris Elba, has been selected to play the lead role of Okonkwo in the television adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s novel, “Things Fall Apart”.

The series is reportedly under development, with Elba and Gina Carter serving as executive producers under their production company, 22Summers.

The casting of Elba has drawn mixed reactions, particularly among Nigerians, who have expressed concerns about whether a non-Igbo actor can adequately portray the iconic role.

Speaking during an interview with Channels TV, Bob Manuel Udoku stated that while he does not oppose the decision to cast Idris Elba, he believes that Nigeria has top-tier actors who could play the role better. He noted that these actors have a deeper understanding of the cultural context of the story.

“There’s this conversation about Idris Elba being cast as Okonkwo in the Hollywood adaptation of Things Fall Apart. I don’t have anything against that, but I think we have people who are top-class actors in Nigeria who can play that role better, knowing where that story is coming from,” Udoku said.

He further emphasized the importance of collaboration between Nollywood and international film industries, stating that such partnerships are becoming more frequent and beneficial to the Nigerian film industry.

Udoku disclosed that he is currently involved in a production that includes major actors from India and Hollywood, underscoring the value of cross-border collaborations in strengthening Nollywood.

“What Nollywood needs now is more collaboration with the global film industry, and we are beginning to see that happen. The talent we have in Nigeria is exceptional,” he added.