Dix Dailey

Written by Dix Dailey

Modified & Updated: 13 May 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

43-facts-about-lupita-nyongo
Source: Vogue.co.uk

Lupita Nyong’o is a celebrated actress, model, and filmmaker who has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry. With her stunning performances and powerful presence, she has captivated audiences and garnered critical acclaim throughout her career. From her breakthrough role in the film “12 Years a Slave,” for which she won an Academy Award, to her dynamic and diverse roles in films like “Black Panther” and “Us,” Lupita continues to showcase her immense talent and versatility.

But there is more to Lupita than just her acting prowess. Her inspiring journey, philanthropic efforts, and influential presence in the world of fashion have also earned her widespread admiration and recognition. In this article, we will dive into 43 fascinating facts about Lupita Nyong’o – from her early life and education to her memorable performances and achievements. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about the remarkable Lupita Nyong’o!

Key Takeaways:

  • Lupita Nyong’o, a talented actress and advocate, has won numerous awards, including an Academy Award for her role in “12 Years a Slave.” She is also known for her fashion sense and dedication to important causes.
  • With her inspiring journey, Lupita Nyong’o has become a role model for aspiring actors and a voice for diversity and representation in Hollywood. She continues to break barriers and make a positive impact in the world.
Table of Contents

Lupita was born on March 1, 1983, in Mexico City, Mexico.

Lupita Nyong’o was actually born in Mexico while her Kenyan parents were living there. She holds dual citizenship in Kenya and the United States.

She moved back to Kenya at the age of one.

After spending her early infancy in Mexico, Lupita returned to Kenya with her family, where she spent her formative years.

Nyong’o is fluent in four languages.

Lupita is not only bilingual, speaking English and Swahili, but she can also fluently converse in Spanish and Luo, her native tribal language.

She is a graduate of the Yale School of Drama.

Lupita earned her Master of Fine Arts degree in Acting from the prestigious Yale School of Drama, honing her craft alongside other talented actors.

Her breakthrough role was in the critically acclaimed film “12 Years a Slave.”

In her feature film debut, Nyong’o delivered a stunning performance as Patsey, a slave girl, earning numerous accolades including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

Lupita is the first Kenyan and Mexican actress to win an Academy Award.

Her win for Best Supporting Actress at the 86th Academy Awards made her the first Kenyan and Mexican actress to receive this prestigious honor.

She is passionate about advocating for girls’ education.

Lupita is a dedicated advocate for girls’ education, having spoken at various events and partnering with organizations like Plan International to provide educational opportunities for young girls in impoverished communities.

Nyong’o was named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World.

In 2014, Time magazine recognized Lupita’s impact on the entertainment industry and her inspiring journey by including her in their esteemed list of the world’s most influential individuals.

She is known for her impeccable sense of style.

Lupita Nyong’o’s red carpet appearances have become highly anticipated events, with her bold and glamorous fashion choices garnering praise from fashion critics and enthusiasts worldwide.

Lupita is a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador.

In 2014, she was appointed as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador, using her platform to advocate for gender equality and women’s rights.

She was one of the faces of Lancôme.

Lupita Nyong’o became an ambassador for the luxury beauty brand Lancôme, joining the ranks of other influential actresses and models.

Nyong’o wrote a children’s book called “Sulwe.”

Lupita penned a heartwarming children’s book that promotes self-love and embracing one’s unique beauty, drawing inspiration from her own experiences with colorism.

She has been involved in theater productions.

Before her film career took off, Lupita showcased her acting prowess in various stage productions, including Shakespeare plays.

Lupita Nyong’o made her Broadway debut in the play “Eclipsed.”

In 2015, she starred in the critically acclaimed Broadway play “Eclipsed,” making history as the first African woman to win a Tony Award for Best Actress.

She has been recognized as a fashion icon.

With her daring fashion choices and unique style, Lupita has been embraced by the fashion industry, becoming a muse for renowned designers and gracing the covers of top fashion magazines.

Lupita starred in the blockbuster film “Black Panther.”

As Nakia, the strong-willed Wakandan warrior and love interest of T’Challa, Nyong’o showcased her combat skills and charismatic presence in the groundbreaking Marvel film.

She appeared in the Star Wars sequel trilogy.

Lupita played the role of Maz Kanata, a wise and mysterious pirate, in “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” “Star Wars: The Last Jedi,” and “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.”

Nyong’o has won several awards for her outstanding performances.

From Critics’ Choice Awards to Screen Actors Guild Awards, Lupita has received recognition from peers and critics alike, solidifying her reputation as a remarkable actress.

She has a love for poetry.

Lupita has a deep appreciation for poetry and has even shared her own spoken word performances, showcasing her versatility as an artist.

She appeared in Jay-Z’s music video for “MaNyfaCedGod.”

In 2017, Lupita starred alongside Jay-Z in the visually stunning music video, further cementing her status as a multifaceted entertainer.

Nyong’o has worked with renowned directors.

Having collaborated with esteemed directors like J.J. Abrams and Jordan Peele, Lupita has proven her ability to bring characters to life under the guidance of visionary filmmakers.

She delivered a powerful speech on colorism.

In 2014, Lupita spoke at the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon, delivering a heartfelt and impactful speech about overcoming society’s beauty standards and embracing one’s unique identity.

Lupita Nyong’o is highly respected within the industry.

Peers and colleagues often speak of Lupita’s professionalism, talent, and kind demeanor, earning her the admiration and respect of her fellow actors and industry professionals.

She has voiced characters in animated films.

In addition to her live-action roles, Lupita has lent her voice to various animated films, bringing her undeniable talent to the world of animation.

Nyong’o is involved in philanthropy.

Lupita actively supports charitable organizations and initiatives, using her influence to make a positive impact on causes such as poverty alleviation and women’s empowerment.

She is an inspiration for aspiring actors.

With her remarkable talent and dedication to her craft, Lupita serves as a shining example for aspiring actors around the world, showing them that dreams can surely become a reality.

Nyong’o has a strong social media presence.

Lupita engages with her fans on various social media platforms, sharing glimpses of her life, promoting her work, and connecting with her global fanbase.

She has received honorary degrees.

Recognizing her significant contributions to the arts and her inspirational journey, Lupita has been awarded honorary degrees from prestigious educational institutions.

Lupita Nyong’o starred in the thriller film “Us.”

In Jordan Peele’s thought-provoking thriller film, Lupita delivered a mesmerizing dual performance, earning critical acclaim for her portrayal of two contrasting characters.

She is an advocate for the deaf community.

Lupita has expressed her support for the deaf community, including sign language interpreters during her speeches and performances, fostering inclusivity and accessibility.

Nyong’o is passionate about environmental conservation.

Deeply concerned about the environment, Lupita actively promotes awareness about climate change and sustainable practices, encouraging others to take action.

She was named Glamour’s Woman of the Year.

In 2014, Glamour magazine honored Lupita Nyong’o as their Woman of the Year, recognizing her remarkable achievements and positive impact on society.

Lupita is an ambassador for the Africa Cancer Foundation.

Raising awareness about cancer prevention and treatment in Africa, Lupita collaborates with the Africa Cancer Foundation to support individuals and communities affected by the disease.

She wrote an op-ed about the importance of representation in Hollywood.

In an op-ed for The New York Times, Lupita eloquently addressed the need for diverse and inclusive storytelling, emphasizing the power of representation in shaping perceptions and fostering empathy.

Nyong’o has been recognized by Forbes.

Forbes magazine has included Lupita Nyong’o in their influential lists, acknowledging her impact on the entertainment industry and her significant contribution to the arts.

She played a prominent role in the film “Queen of Katwe.”

In this inspiring biographical drama, Lupita portrayed Harriet, the compassionate mother of a chess prodigy living in the slums of Uganda.

Lupita Nyong’o delivered a powerful speech on self-acceptance.

In her speech at the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon in 2017, she shared her personal struggles with self-acceptance and urged others to embrace their beauty, inside and out.

She starred in the psychological horror film “Little Monsters.”

Lupita showcased her versatility as an actress in the dark comedy-horror film “Little Monsters,” delighting audiences with her humor and charm.

Nyong’o voiced a character in the live-action/animated film “The Jungle Book.”

In Jon Favreau’s adaptation of the classic tale, Lupita lent her voice to Raksha, the protective mother wolf who raises Mowgli.

She drew inspiration from women in her family.

Lupita credits the strong, resilient women in her family for inspiring her and shaping her values, instilling a sense of strength and compassion within her.

Lupita Nyong’o received the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Vanguard Award.

In recognition of her impactful contributions to the entertainment industry, Lupita was honored with the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Vanguard Award, celebrating her bravery, resilience, and artistry.

She has appeared in music videos.

Lupita has made appearances in music videos, collaborating with artists like Jay-Z and Nonso Amadi to further showcase her artistic versatility.

Nyong’o continues to break barriers and inspire others.

With her talent, grace, and unwavering dedication to her craft, Lupita Nyong’o serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors, advocates for representation and diversity, and a role model for individuals around the world.

Conclusion

Lupita Nyong’o has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Through her remarkable talent, advocacy for important causes, and ability to inspire others, she has become a true trailblazer. Whether it’s her captivating performances, her fashion choices, or her dedication to making a positive impact, Lupita continues to captivate audiences and push boundaries. As she continues to shine on the big screen and use her platform for change, there’s no doubt that Lupita Nyong’o will remain an influential figure and an inspiration for years to come.

Disclaimer: This content is purely fictional and created for demonstration purposes only.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lupita Nyong’o is a remarkable and talented actress who has made a huge impact in the entertainment industry. She has achieved tremendous success in a short span of time and has become an inspiration to many aspiring actors around the world. From her breakout role in “12 Years a Slave” to her iconic portrayal of Nakia in “Black Panther,” Nyong’o has proven her versatility and ability to bring depth to any character she plays.Not only is Nyong’o an accomplished actress, but she is also a role model and an advocate for diversity and inclusion in Hollywood. Her commitment to using her platform to address important issues and promote social change is commendable.With her grace, talent, and poise, Lupita Nyong’o is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry. Her future projects and contributions are highly anticipated, and we can’t wait to see what she achieves next.

FAQs

Q: When was Lupita Nyong’o born?

A: Lupita Nyong’o was born on March 1, 1983.

Q: What is Lupita Nyong’o best known for?

A: Lupita Nyong’o is best known for her Academy Award-winning performance in the film “12 Years a Slave” and for her role as Nakia in the Marvel superhero film “Black Panther.

Q: How many languages does Lupita Nyong’o speak?

A: Lupita Nyong’o is fluent in English, Spanish, Swahili, and Luo.

Q: Has Lupita Nyong’o won any awards?

A: Yes, Lupita Nyong’o has won numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play, and a Critics’ Choice Movie Award.

Q: What causes does Lupita Nyong’o support?

A: Lupita Nyong’o is a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry. She is also involved in various humanitarian efforts, including speaking out against poverty and supporting organizations that provide education and healthcare to those in need.

Lupita Nyong'o's inspiring journey captivates, but there's more to explore. Discover the incredible story of Jennifer Beals, a trailblazing actress who defied expectations. Uncover astounding facts about the iconic Hollywood Sign, a symbol that has stood the test of time. And delve into the world of fashion icon Yves Saint Laurent, whose visionary designs continue to influence and inspire. Each of these fascinating subjects offers a unique glimpse into the realms of entertainment, history, and style, promising to engage and enlighten curious readers seeking to broaden their knowledge.

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