Meet Yetide Badaki, The Nigeria-Born Star Of The TV Show ‘American Gods’

American Gods is an eight-part adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s brilliant 2001 novel, which tells the story of a modern world on the verge of a clash between old and new gods. The highly-anticipated first episode premiered on April 30 and it already feels like a cult classic in the making.

While the one-hour pilot had a lot to love – from the gorgeous cinematography to Ricky Whittle’s nuanced lead role – what really stood out for us was Yetide Badaki‘s flawless interpretation of Bilquis, a washed-up love goddess.

Introducing audiences to the beauty of African storytelling

Born in Ibadan, Yetide, who has been a guest actor on shows like the Emmy-nominated Masters of Sex and the cult classic Lost is finally getting her big break on American Gods – a role she hopes can help reintroduce audiences around the world to the beauty of African storytelling.

Yetide’s storyline  – which has been expanded for the show – will bring up several timely issues about race and immigration. As a recent immigrant herself, Yetide said, during an interview with TshisaLIVE, that the show’s message of tolerance and unity was vital.

Speaking about her connection with Nigeria and how she bring it to her role, Yetide continued:

“Africa is a part of me. I grew up in Nigeria. I can still remember its sights and sounds, the smell of the places I visited and the people which made such an impact on my life.

Africa is alive within me, it is in my skin, and I hope to share it with audiences through my new role. For me, it is like coming home to Africa”

You can catch her on ‘American Gods’ which will be running on till June 18.