Eyiyemi Afolayan, the talented young actress who portrayed Princess Omowunmi in the epic fantasy film Anikulapo, has been making waves in the entertainment industry. Born on September 11, 2005, Eyiyemi is the first child of renowned Nigerian actor and filmmaker, Kunle Afolayan.
In Anikulapo, Eyiyemi’s performance as the headstrong princess captivated audiences. Her portrayal of Omowunmi—a character torn between love and duty—showcased both her acting prowess and natural beauty. Kunle Afolayan, who directed the film, shared his reasons for casting his daughter in this pivotal role:
“If you want to portray the role of a princess, I think there is no giving that the person has to be beautiful, and she is beautiful,” Afolayan explained. “It felt good because I did not have to pay her, even though I was paying her directly or indirectly.”
The film’s success further solidified Eyiyemi’s position in the industry Anikulapo became a global sensation, ranking number one on Netflix’s weekly chart for the most-viewed non-English original movie between October 3 and October 9, 2022, with over 8.7 million viewed hours. Eyiyemi’s performance contributed significantly to the film’s acclaim.
Beyond acting, Eyiyemi is also a talented singer, following in the footsteps of her brother, Diekoloreoluwa Afolayan, Kunle Afolayan’s first son. The Afolayan family’s commitment to nurturing their children’s talents is evident, and Eyiyemi’s humility and respectfulness have not gone unnoticed.
As the rising star continues to shine, fans eagerly anticipate her next projects. Eyiyemi Afolayan is undoubtedly a name to watch in the Nigerian entertainment scene, and her journey from Anikulapo to stardom is just beginning.
Stay tuned for more updates on Eyiyemi Afolayan’s remarkable journey as she graces screens and stages worldwide.