Kemi Adetiba: From Radio Waves to Netflix Powerhouse with 'To Kill a Monkey'

Kemi Adetiba, the Nigerian filmmaker renowned for box-office hits like "The Wedding Party" and the critically acclaimed "King of Boys," is set to release her latest project, "To Kill a Monkey," on Netflix in July 2025. This new venture marks a potential shift in her directorial style, promising a fresh and thrilling narrative without relying on familiar faces or formulas that have defined her previous successes.

Adetiba's Rise to Prominence

Adetiba's journey to becoming a Nollywood powerhouse is a story of bold reinvention. Born on January 8, 1980, in Lagos, Nigeria, to Dele Adetiba, a broadcasting veteran, and Mayen Adetiba, an actor-journalist and pioneering civil engineer, she was immersed in a creative environment from a young age. While initially pursuing a law degree at the University of Lagos and attending Nigerian Law School, her passion for storytelling ultimately led her to filmmaking.

After refining her skills at the New York Film Academy, Adetiba began her career as a radio presenter at Rhythm 93.7 FM, hosting popular shows before transitioning to television. She became a familiar face on Nigerian screens through shows like M-Net’s "Studio 53," "Temptation Nigeria," and as the anchor of "Maltina Dance All."

Transition to Film: Music Videos and Breakthroughs

Upon graduating from film school, Adetiba quickly established herself as a sought-after music video director, working with top Nigerian artists such as Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, Olamide, and Waje. Her work earned her numerous awards, including Best Female Video at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards, demonstrating her ability to create visually compelling and engaging content.

Her short film, "Across a Bloodied Ocean" (2008), a student project, gained recognition at the Pan African Film Festival and the National Black Arts Festival, signaling her potential in narrative filmmaking.

Box Office Success and Streaming Dominance

Adetiba's breakthrough in feature films came with "The Wedding Party" (2016), which shattered Nigerian box-office records, grossing over ₦400 million. The film also premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), further solidifying her position as a major player in Nollywood. The sequel, "The Wedding Party 2" (2017), sustained the momentum, proving her ability to connect with audiences.

However, it was "King of Boys" (2018), a gritty political thriller, that cemented her reputation as a visionary filmmaker. The film garnered critical acclaim and spawned a dedicated fan base. The seven-part sequel, "King of Boys: The Return of the King" (2021), released on Netflix, further established her as a force in the streaming era.

Entrepreneurial Ventures and Mentorship

Beyond her filmmaking endeavors, Adetiba has demonstrated an entrepreneurial spirit. She launched Kemi Adetiba Visuals and co-created "King Women," a web series spotlighting female leaders across Africa, in partnership with platforms like EbonyLife Creative Academy. This initiative showcases her commitment to empowering and mentoring the next generation of creative professionals.

"To Kill a Monkey": A New Chapter

With "To Kill a Monkey," Adetiba is venturing into uncharted territory. The film's plot details remain scarce, but the promise of a fresh narrative and a departure from her established formulas has generated considerable anticipation. According to industry analyst, Dr. Nkechi Okeke, a film studies professor at the University of Lagos, "Adetiba's willingness to experiment and push boundaries is what makes her such a compelling figure. 'To Kill a Monkey' could be a significant turning point in her career, demonstrating her versatility and ability to adapt to evolving audience expectations."

Film critic, Chinedu Okafor, of "Nollywood Today," adds that "Adetiba's track record speaks for itself. She has consistently delivered high-quality productions that resonate with both domestic and international audiences. The move to Netflix has allowed her to reach a wider audience, and 'To Kill a Monkey' has the potential to further solidify her position as one of Africa's leading filmmakers."

Legacy and Impact

Kemi Adetiba's journey from law school to globally acclaimed filmmaker is a testament to her talent, hard work, and unwavering vision. Her ability to blend grit, style, and compelling storytelling has redefined Nollywood for a global audience. As she prepares to release "To Kill a Monkey," Adetiba continues to shape the future of African cinema, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

Adetiba married Oscar Heman-Ackah, an advertising and music executive from Ghana, in April 2022.