Mo Abudu's EbonyLife, Idris Elba Partner On African-Inspired Movies

Nigerian media mogul Mo Abudu isn't resting on her laurels as she is joining forces with popular British actor Idris Elba to launch a film and TV venture telling African-inspired stories.

Per the Hollywood Reporter, the partnership which was announced on Thursday aims to “empower and uplift talent from Africa and the Diaspora” via a development slate of film and TV projects.

The joint venture will also support up-and-coming creatives and executives from those communities to “build capacity and foster authentic representation” while giving the African stories and its Diaspora equal attention and respect as others.

Mo Abudu

Speaking on working together, Abudu and Elba disclosed that the partnership will shine a light on authentic, "Afro-centric stories” resonating with audiences around the globe.

To achieve the above, projects ranging from feature film series for TV or streaming partners will be set up as co-productions between Green Door Pictures and EbonyLife Media.

Up-and-comers will be educated and trained, thereby empowering talents from the African continent in order to launch them into the global entertainment industry.

Idris Elba

EbonyLife's creative academy in Lagos will serve as a model for the execution of the plan across the continent.

Graduates of the programme will be supported and fast-tracked for hands-on productions.

Elba who has portrayed African characters in films like Beasts of No Nation and Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom said he has always been passionate about making a positive impact with his platform.

“I have always been passionate about using my platform to make a positive impact.

“By partnering with Mo, we aim to offer free, world-class industry education to the next generation of storytellers and bring their authentic voices to the forefront.

“This partnership is a step towards creating a more inclusive and diverse media landscape, one that represents the voices and experiences of Africa and its Diaspora around the world”, he stated.