Lupita Nyong’o has been chosen as the Jury President for the 2024 Berlin Film Festival, known as the Berlinale, making history as the first Black person to hold this prestigious position.
Acclaimed Star Brings Versatility and Global Appeal
The Oscar-winning actress, known for roles in films like “Black Panther,” “Us,” and “12 Years A Slave,” was selected by festival directors Mariëtte Rissenbeek and Carlo Chatrian.
They cited her “versatility in embracing different projects, addressing different audiences, and consistency to one idea” in characters across her diverse roles.
Nyong’o has long explored stories related to race and the African diaspora. She shot to international fame for her role as brutalized slave Patsy in the acclaimed historical drama “12 Years A Slave,” for which she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Career Spotlight: Acting, Directing, Writing
In addition to acting, Nyong’o has experience directing and producing films herself. In 2009, she wrote, filmed, and produced the documentary “In My Genes” on Kenya’s albino people.
She recently starred as Nakia in the groundbreaking superhero film “Black Panther” and its 2022 sequel, which featured a primarily Black cast and became a worldwide cultural phenomenon.
Off-screen, Nyong’o penned the 2020 New York Times bestseller children’s book “Sulwe” and was nominated for a Tony Award for her role in the Broadway production “Eclipsed” by playwright Danai Gurira.
Leading The Fest As Jury President
As Jury President, Nyong’o will lead the panel responsible for selecting the winners of the Berlin Film Festival’s most coveted honors – the Golden Bear and Silver Bear awards. She takes over the position from actress Kristen Stewart, who served as 2023 Jury President.
The Berlinale is regarded as one of the “Big Three” European film festivals alongside Cannes and Venice. Over 400 films from around the world are submitted each year to compete across different categories.
During the intensive 11-day event held annually in February, films are screened across various venues in Berlin for jurors and public audiences. Nyong’o will preside over deliberations to decide which standout films receive the top prizes.
“I am deeply honored to be taking on the role of Jury President and look forward to celebrating outstanding filmmakers from around the world,” Nyong’o said.
Bringing New Perspective as First Black President
As the Berlinale’s first Black jury chair, Nyong’o’s appointment is a historic milestone. Her unique background and discerning artistic eye will bring a fresh perspective to the critical deliberations.
Festival directors Rissenbeek and Chatrian will be stepping down after the 2024 event. Nyong’o’s selection represents the versatile creative vision they have championed during their tenure.
The actress took to Instagram to share her excitement over the news, writing “Excited to announce that I have been named Jury President for the upcoming Berlin Film Festival!”
With Lupita Nyong’o at the helm in 2024, the Berlinale is positioned to further the dialogue on inclusive representation through groundbreaking cinema.
