Nollywood has grown into one of the largest film industries in the world, producing films that extend far beyond our African borders. Today, Nigerian films, actors, and directors are increasingly making their presence felt in other industries like Hollywood. This cross-border interaction demonstrates both the strength and international relevance of Nigerian storytelling and Nollywood acts within global cinema.

Several Nigerian actors have successfully crossed over into Hollywood, ranging from pioneering figures to bold new talents. Each of these actors carries Nollywood’s identity into foreign productions, ensuring that the spirit of Nigerian cinema resonates globally. Their individual successes are not only personal achievements but also milestones that reflect it’s overall progress on the world stage. In no particular order, here are 10 Nigerian actors/actresses featured in Hollywood:

Somkele Iyamah Idhalamah

Idhalamah stands as one of Nollywood’s most dynamic contemporary actresses. She first gained recognition through The Arbitration and 93 Days, films that highlighted her emotional depth and compelling screen presence. More recently, she appeared in Orah. In Hollywood, Somkele has taken roles in Star Trek: Discovery, The Expanse, and Titans, where her adaptability and resilience as a performer shone through. Her career embodies the rise of a new generation of Nigerian actors shaping both local and international screens.

Ayoola Ayolola

Yet another Nigerian actor who has expanded into Hollywood. He first gained public attention after winning Project Fame West Africa, before transitioning from music into Nollywood. His breakout role in Skinny Girl in Transit cemented his place as a household name, and his charm, relatability, and range have made him a consistent force on Nigerian television. Recently, Ayoola reprised his role in a new season of Skinny Girl in Transit, reminding audiences of his staying power. His Hollywood appearance in The Chosen introduced him to a global audience and further demonstrated his ability to cross both cultural and industry boundaries.

Joseph Benjamin

He also represents Nollywood’s versatility on the global stage. Initially known as a co-host of Project Fame, he transitioned fully into acting, building a career that spans romantic comedies, thrillers, and television dramas. His work consistently blends charisma with emotional depth, as seen in his recent role in Isoken Returns. Beyond Nollywood, Joseph made his Hollywood debut with roles in Stay and Green Leaf, which broadened his international recognition and highlighted Nollywood’s ability to produce actors of global calibre.

Bikiya Graham-Douglas

She is another actor who blends multiple artistic strengths into her career. With strong roots in theatre, she moved into Nollywood films where her elegance, confidence, and depth became her hallmarks. She appeared in projects like Before 30 and Flower Girl before re-establishing her presence with fresh television and cinema performances. Her Hollywood role in The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare showcased her talents on a global platform and reinforced the fact that Nollywood continues to nurture world-class performers.

Jimmy Odukoya

He has quickly become recognised as one of Nigeria’s rising action stars. Known for his charisma and intensity. Remarkably, he balances his pastoral duties with a flourishing acting career, a combination that sets him apart. His Hollywood appearance in The Woman King placed him alongside international stars, earning him positive reviews and further establishing his global presence.

Wale Ojo

A veteran who has long been celebrated for his versatility and intelligence. Whether in comedy or drama, he brings precision and nuance to his performances. His role in Breath of Life reaffirmed his standing as a leading actor whose emotional range continues to captivate audiences. Hollywood has also embraced his talent, featuring him in The Guard and Black Earth Rising, and many other productions that showcased his adaptability and professionalism. Ojo stands as one of the finest examples of Nollywood’s global exports.

Omotola Jalade

One of Nigeria’s most iconic figures. With a career that spans decades, she has consistently commanded attention with her star power and bold storytelling choices. Her return to Nollywood in Alter Ego drew attention for its fearless narrative and reaffirmed her commitment to the industry. Omotola’s Hollywood role in Hit the Floor marked another highlight of her career, extending her influence into the American television market while solidifying her legacy as one of Nollywood’s most significant exports.

Osas Ighodaro

Osas Ighodaro also bridges Nollywood and Hollywood with her career. She began through pageantry before transitioning into presenting, acting, and advocacy. Her beauty, talent, and versatility have made her a favourite among Nigerian audiences. Her recent role in Merry Men 3 displayed her ability to merge glamour with strong dramatic presence, while her Hollywood appearance in Where Children Play expanded her global reach. Her career reflects the growing exchange of talent between Nollywood and Hollywood.

Genevieve Nnaji

Nnaji continues to be one of the most recognizable faces of Nollywood worldwide. With timeless performances that defined an era of Nigerian cinema, she remains an inspiration for younger actors. Her directorial debut Lionheart, Netflix’s first Nigerian acquisition, pushed Nollywood further into the global spotlight. In Hollywood, Genevieve starred in Farming, reaffirming her international stature and unmatched artistry. She remains an enduring symbol of Nollywood’s global influence.

Olu Jacobs

He represents a pioneering generation of Nollywood actors who broke into Hollywood decades ago. His career, which spans stage, film, and television, paved the way for today’s global Nollywood stars. In Nollywood, his performance in The Royal Hibiscus Hotel highlighted his wisdom and mastery, while Hollywood recognised his talents early through roles in The Dogs of War, The Tomorrow People, The Goodies, and Barlow at Large. Jacobs’ career embodies Nollywood’s long journey toward international acclaim and remains a source of inspiration for future generations.

Conclusion

Nollywood continues to expand beyond local boundaries, with its actors increasingly occupying roles in Hollywood productions. Each successful crossover strengthens the visibility of the Nigerian film industry on the global stage. From Idhalamah’s futuristic Hollywood roles to Olu Jacobs’ classic performances, these actors exemplify resilience, creativity, and excellence. They confirm that Nigerian talent belongs on the world stage, and their achievements suggest that the future will bring even greater collaborations between Nollywood and Hollywood. This ongoing exchange will only make Nollywood stronger and more relevant in global cinema.