Nigerian Afrobeat superstar Davido (born David Adedeji Adeleke) has publicly expressed his ambition to cross over into film, both in front of and behind the camera.
Speaking at a panel during the 2025 Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) in Lagos, Davido revealed his desire to take on a role that breaks his usual public persona.
“My brother was saying that he was going to give me a role,” he told the audience, adding, “I told him I wanted to do a role that would be shot by a taxi driver or something out of the blue. I definitely want to get involved in movies.”
From music to movies: Why now?
Davido explained his interest in film as part of a broader creative evolution. He cited entertainers like 50 Cent—who moved from music into acting and production—as an inspiration. “I’ve always been inspired by people like 50 Cent who moved from music into film and made a major impact,” he said.
On his ambitions behind the camera, he stated that he hopes to produce stories that authentically reflect African culture and narratives, beyond just appearing onscreen. “It’s another way to tell our stories and show the world the richness of African culture,” he observed.
What’s next?
For now, Davido hasn’t announced a specific movie or production company yet, but the signals are clear:
He wants an unexpected role (e.g., playing a taxi driver) to challenge both himself and expectations.
He is open to collaboration with African filmmakers as part of his foray into cinema.
He aims to merge music and film in his artistry, leveraging his established platform to explore new creative avenues.
Why it matters
Davido’s move mirrors a growing trend: as Afrobeats continues its global rise, artists are increasingly branching into film and other storytelling mediums. His involvement could bring greater visibility and investment into African cinema and pave the way for cross-industry partnerships.
For his fans and followers, Davido’s decision signals that his creative ambitions extend beyond the studio and the stage—into the realm of character, narrative and visual motion.
If you like, I can pull in additional context about the African film industry, how musicians have transitioned into acting, and how this might shape Davido’s career. Do you want that?
