In this edition of the Ranks Africa Spotlight Series, we shine the light on one of Nollywood’s most dynamic and consistently evolving stars — Lilian Afegbai.
In every industry, there comes a moment when a talent—once seen, once questioned, once underestimated—steps into the full clarity of their power. For Lilian Afegbai, that moment is now.
Netflix’s To Kill a Monkey is not just another crime thriller—it’s a career-defining canvas. And Afegbai? She painted a masterpiece.
Produced by the award-winning filmmaker Kemi Adetiba, To Kill a Monkey is Netflix’s gripping new crime series—and in it, Lilian doesn’t just act; she electrifies.
Her portrayal of Idia is nothing short of a masterclass in emotional complexity and raw intensity. It’s a performance that silences skeptics and elevates her into the upper echelon of African screen talent.
Lilian has always been on the radar—a face that’s lit up screens, a name that’s shown up in credits, a woman who’s done the work. But this time, the work speaks for itself. In To Kill a Monkey, she broke free from the “supporting” label and rewrote her narrative.
Social media couldn’t stop talking. Fans rated her 5 stars. Reviewers called her the emotional core of the story. And even longtime skeptics had to admit—this wasn’t just growth. It was a glow-up backed by grit, range, and presence.
Her performance as Idia isn’t just getting attention—it’s commanding respect. From critics to fans, timelines to think pieces, the buzz is undeniable: Lilian Afegbai delivered one of the most gripping performances of 2025. And she did it without compromise.
Idia is layered: vulnerable yet powerful, strategic yet chaotic. And Lilian’s interpretation? Absolutely magnetic. Viewers were left stunned by the range she brought to the role—and even her loudest critics had to give credit. This wasn’t just a “good performance”; it was a breakthrough.
Many may remember her from reality TV beginnings, but Lilian’s journey has been about more than fame—it’s been about craft. And now, the industry is seeing her for who she truly is: a powerhouse performer, a thoughtful producer, and a woman who owns every room she enters, on or off screen.
So yes—Lilian Afegbai is earning her flowers. Not just for To Kill a Monkey, but for every project she’s helped carry, every role she’s made unforgettable, and every ceiling she’s shattered.
In a year where Nigerian cinema is pushing new boundaries globally, Afegbai’s performance is a reminder of what’s possible when storytelling meets intention. When casting is sharp. When talent is trusted.
She didn’t just elevate the script—she anchored it.
And for all the producers and casting directors paying attention: casting Lilian isn’t a risk anymore. It’s a guarantee.
