Toronto Tempo centre Temi Fagbenle set to star in Hollywood adaptation of African fantasy novel
The six-foot-five WNBA player has a supporting role in an upcoming adventure film starring Viola Davis, Cynthia Erivo, and Idris Elba. The film releases January 15, 2027.
The day's top stories, food & events — every morning at 7. Unsubscribe anytime.
Temi Fagbenle, centre for the Toronto Tempo, is about to make her mark on the big screen. The six-foot-five WNBA player will appear in an upcoming Hollywood blockbuster adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi's 2018 Afro-fantasy novel "Children of Blood and Bone."
Fagbenle has a supporting role in the film, which stars Thuso Mbedu, Viola Davis, Amandla Stenberg, Damson Idris, Cynthia Erivo, and Idris Elba. The story follows a young woman, Zélie Adebola, on a mission to retrieve magic stolen from her people in a mythical African kingdom. Fagbenle's specific role has not been revealed, though it is rumoured to be a brand-new character who will play a major part in the story.
The 33-year-old has a personal connection to the original author — both attended Harvard University between 2011 and 2015. The film is directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood and is scheduled to hit theatres across North America on January 15, 2027.
Before the film's release, Toronto Tempo fans will have chances to see Fagbenle on the court at the Coca-Cola Coliseum. Toronto acquired Fagbenle via free agency ahead of the franchise's inaugural WNBA season, and she has averaged nearly seven points and four rebounds in eight games.
The details
When does the 'Children of Blood and Bone' film release?
The film releases on January 15, 2027 across North America.
Who stars in the 'Children of Blood and Bone' adaptation?
The film stars Thuso Mbedu, Viola Davis, Amandla Stenberg, Damson Idris, Cynthia Erivo, and Idris Elba, with Toronto Tempo centre Temi Fagbenle in a supporting role.
What is Temi Fagbenle's connection to the novel's author?
Temi Fagbenle and Tomi Adeyemi both attended Harvard University between 2011 and 2015.
