We have better performers - Bob-Manuel Udokwu on Idris Elba playing the lead in 'Things Fall Apart' TV adaptation

Bob-Manuel Udokwu, a Nollywood veteran, has reacted to reports that Hollywood actor Idris Elba will play the primary role, "Okonkwo," in a television adaptation of Chinua Achebe's seminal classic "Things Fall Apart."

Variety previously revealed that the series is now in development at A24, with Elba Elba and Gina Carter serving as executive producers under their 22Summers label.

In an interview with Channels TV, Udokwu stated that he has nothing against Elba taking the lead part, but that Nigeria has top-tier performers who are better suited for the job.
"There's been some talk about Idris Elba being cast as Okonkwo in the Hollywood remake of Things Fall Apart.

"I don't have anything against that as an actor but I think we have top-class actors in Nigeria who can play that role even better, knowing where the story is coming from," according to him.

He did, however, add that the continued collaboration between Nollywood and other film sectors is a great trend.

He added that he is now working on a film including actors from Bollywood and Hollywood.
Achebe's acclaimed African Trilogy begins with Things Fall Apart and is followed by No Longer at Ease and Arrow of God.

Previous adaptations have included a film and a miniseries, with Pete Edochie portraying Okonkwo.