Zanele Potelwa Chats With Thuso Mbedu About Children of Blood and Bone Film
South African actress Thuso Mbedu is set to star as Zélie in the highly anticipated Children of Blood and Bone movie, arriving in cinemas in January 2027. Zanele Potelwa recently spoke with Mbedu in New York during the film’s press day ahead of the trailer launch.
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES — 14 August 2026 — Award-winning South African television and radio personality Zanele Potelwa continues to make her mark on the international entertainment scene after travelling to New York to interview South African actress Thuso Mbedu about the upcoming fantasy film Children of Blood and Bone.
The interview took place during the film’s New York press day, following an opportunity facilitated by Paramount Pictures South Africa.
Mbedu stars as Zélie, the central character in the highly anticipated adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling fantasy novel.
Thuso Mbedu Talks About Her Role as Zélie
Speaking about her role in Children of Blood and Bone, Thuso Mbedu shared her excitement and gratitude at being part of the highly anticipated film.
The South African actress said the role of Zélie means a great deal to her and expressed her hope that audiences will connect with the story when the film reaches cinemas.
Mbedu also encouraged audiences to stand up for what they believe in, reflecting one of the central themes of the story.
For Mbedu, the project represents another major step in an increasingly international acting career.
Zanele Potelwa Meets Thuso Mbedu in New York
For Zanele Potelwa, the opportunity to interview Mbedu represented a particularly meaningful moment.
Both women are South African talents operating on an increasingly global stage, making the New York meeting a notable moment for South African entertainment.
Potelwa said she was grateful for the opportunity to work in international spaces and to speak with another South African who continues to achieve success globally.
“I am so grateful to God for placing me in such spaces to get to work and dream even bigger in. Getting to speak to a fellow South African doing amazing things on a global scale was an honour. I am so excited for everyone to watch the film next year January.”
Gina Prince-Bythewood Praises Thuso Mbedu
Also attending the New York press event was Gina Prince-Bythewood, the director and co-writer of Children of Blood and Bone.
Prince-Bythewood spoke with Potelwa about her experience working with Mbedu and why she continues to trust the South African actress with major roles.
The filmmaker described Mbedu as a generational talent, highlighting the actress’s growing reputation in international cinema.
Prince-Bythewood’s involvement adds another significant layer to the project, having previously directed films including The Woman King.
Regina King, Lashana Lynch and Tosin Cole Among Cast at New York Event
Several members of the film’s star-studded cast were also present at the event held at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in New York.
Among those in attendance were:
- Regina King
- Lashana Lynch
- Tosin Cole
- Thuso Mbedu
- Gina Prince-Bythewood
The film features an ensemble cast of internationally recognised actors, further raising expectations around the adaptation.
Zanele Potelwa’s New York Look
Potelwa also made a statement on the red carpet, wearing a dress by Otiz Seflo, styled by Mr Suave, with hair by Sibahle Siyakhula.
The South African personality brought a distinctly local creative presence to the international press event while interviewing some of the film’s biggest stars.
What Is Children of Blood and Bone About?
Children of Blood and Bone is an epic fantasy story set in the fictional world of Orïsha.
The story follows a young woman who embarks on a dangerous journey to restore magic that was violently taken from her people.
She and her brother eventually join forces with the king’s daughter and son as they fight against his oppressive rule.
The film is based on Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling novel of the same name.
Who Stars in Children of Blood and Bone?
The movie features a major international cast, including:
- Thuso Mbedu
- Damson Idris
- Amandla Stenberg
- Tosin Cole
- Cynthia Erivo
- Lashana Lynch
- Zackary Momoh
- Richard Mofe-Damijo
- Chiwetel Ejiofor
- Regina King
- Idris Elba
- Viola Davis
The film also features new original music from Grammy Award-winning artists Tems and Burna Boy.
When Does Children of Blood and Bone Come Out?
Children of Blood and Bone is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on 15 January 2027 via Paramount Pictures.
The film is expected to be one of the major fantasy releases of 2027, with its combination of African-inspired storytelling, an international cast and a high-profile creative team generating significant anticipation.
Watch the Children of Blood and Bone Trailer
The official trailer gives audiences their first major look at the world of Orïsha, the characters and the fantasy story at the centre of the film.
Watch the official trailer:
Watch Zanele Potelwa Interview Thuso Mbedu
Potelwa’s conversation with Mbedu offers South African audiences an inside look at the actress’s involvement in one of the most anticipated fantasy films of 2027.
Watch the interview on Instagram:
Watch Zanele Potelwa chat with Thuso Mbedu
Frequently Asked Questions
Who does Thuso Mbedu play in Children of Blood and Bone?
Thuso Mbedu plays Zélie, the central character in Children of Blood and Bone.
When is Children of Blood and Bone released?
Children of Blood and Bone is scheduled to release in cinemas on 15 January 2027 through Paramount Pictures.
Who directed Children of Blood and Bone?
The film is directed and co-written by Gina Prince-Bythewood.
Who is in the cast of Children of Blood and Bone?
The cast includes Thuso Mbedu, Damson Idris, Amandla Stenberg, Tosin Cole, Regina King, Viola Davis, Idris Elba, Lashana Lynch, Cynthia Erivo and Chiwetel Ejiofor, among others.
Is Children of Blood and Bone based on a book?
Yes. The film is based on Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling fantasy novel Children of Blood and Bone.
Where was Zanele Potelwa’s interview with Thuso Mbedu filmed?
Zanele Potelwa interviewed Thuso Mbedu in New York during the film’s press day at the Brooklyn Academy of Music.
What is Children of Blood and Bone about?
The film follows a young woman who attempts to restore magic stolen from her people while confronting a brutal ruling regime in the fantasy world of Orïsha.
Thuso Mbedu and Children of Blood and Bone: A Major Moment for South African Talent
The New York press event highlights the growing international presence of South African talent in major global film productions.
For Thuso Mbedu, Children of Blood and Bone adds another major international project to her career. For Zanele Potelwa, the opportunity to interview Mbedu in New York represents another milestone in her own international media journey.
With Gina Prince-Bythewood directing, an all-star cast and original music from Tems and Burna Boy, Children of Blood and Bone is already generating significant anticipation ahead of its 15 January 2027 cinema release.
