Home / Arts and Entertainment / From Manchester Estate to Stardom: Wunmi Mosaku's Journey
From Manchester Estate to Stardom: Wunmi Mosaku's Journey
20 Jan
Summary
- Mosaku's career launched with a £30 bus trip and acting audition.
- She stars in 'Sinners,' earning praise and award nominations.
- Mosaku reflects on cultural assimilation and finding her roots.
Wunmi Mosaku, a Manchester native, has achieved stratospheric success with her compelling performance in the vampire thriller 'Sinners.' The 39-year-old actress is experiencing a rigorous awards season, with her portrayal of Annie, a Hoodoo priestess, garnering significant attention and positioning her for potential accolades.
Her career trajectory began with a modest £30 bus fare to London for an acting audition, a decision supported by her mother, which led her to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (Rada). Despite early challenges, including being one of the few Black students in her class, Mosaku persevered.
Mosaku's role in 'Sinners' has brought her increased public scrutiny, particularly regarding her second pregnancy. She chose to announce it in Vogue to manage speculation, expressing the cultural significance of privacy in her Nigerian heritage.
The actress, who previously won a Bafta for her role as Gloria Taylor, has balanced high-profile projects like Marvel's 'Loki' with intense dramas. She has expressed a desire for diverse roles in the UK, beyond police officers.
Her preparation for 'Sinners' involved deep dives into Hoodoo, which reconnected her with her Yoruba heritage and language. This exploration highlighted the cultural detachment that can occur during assimilation, a topic she addresses with profound emotion.
Looking ahead, Mosaku has upcoming roles in Apple's 'This Is How It Goes' and Aaron Sorkin's 'The Social Reckoning,' signaling continued global career momentum.



