Tomi Adeyemi Distances Herself From Children of Blood and Bone Movie Adaptation

On-Set Trauma and Emotional Fallout

Adeyemi described an on-set experience that she claims traumatized her, stating she left the filming location hyperventilating and sobbing. According to the author, the experience was so severe that upon returning to America from an overseas location, she suffered so many panic attacks and severe somatic pain that she concluded she would never be able to watch the film. She characterized the production as the worst thing I have ever had to live through.

The author further alleged that she has been antagonized behind the scenes for the 18 months following the incident. While she noted there are many witnesses to her exit from the set, she has not shared specific details regarding the nature of the ordeal. Adeyemi expressed a desire to move on, stating she never want[s] to hear about this project again and has no further comments regarding the people involved in the production.

Conflict With Cast and Production

The author’s public distancing includes a contentious relationship with cast member Amandla Stenberg, who portrays Princess Amari. Adeyemi shared screenshots of a February 2025 text exchange in which Stenberg apparently expressed a desire to reconnect as human beings. Adeyemi responded by telling the actor, Do not ever use my name in an interview or video again. Do not text me. Do not call me, before blocking her.

Stenberg’s casting had previously been a point of controversy, with claims that colorism influenced her selection for the role. During a trailer launch event at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in New York, director Gina Prince-Bythewood addressed the casting by stating the adaptation was beautifully inspired by Nigeria and also inclusive of the whole diaspora, aiming for a representation of all the beautiful hues.

Film Details and Production Status

Despite the fallout, the film is slated for a theatrical release on January 15, with some sources citing a January 2027 date. Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, who co-wrote the screenplay with Adeyemi, the movie adapts the first novel of the Legacy of Orïsha trilogy. The story follows Zélie Adebola in the mythical kingdom of Orïsha as she attempts to restore magic stolen by a ruthless ruler.

The adaptation features a high-profile ensemble cast:

• Thuso Mbedu: Zélie
• Amandla Stenberg: Princess Amari
• Damson Idris: Prince Inan
• Viola Davis: Lekan
• Cynthia Erivo: Admiral Kaea
• Lashana Lynch: Jumoke
• Other cast members: Idris Elba, Ayra Starr, Bukky Bakray, Tosin Cole, and Chiwetel Ejiofor.

While Adeyemi was previously set to executive produce and co-write the screenplay, it remains unclear if she will maintain those roles. Representatives for TheWrap and Gina Prince-Bythewood did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Adeyemi has encouraged fans who wish to support her to purchase the books in the trilogy from independent bookstores instead.