Simi Gbadamosi, the talented Nigerian actress, has been recognized for her exceptional work in animation with an Emmy nomination for her role in Disney’s highly acclaimed animated series Iwájú. This prestigious nomination has further solidified her growing reputation within the global entertainment industry.
Iwájú, which was released in 2025, is a groundbreaking animated series that blends elements of Nigerian culture with futuristic storytelling. Set in a vibrant, tech-advanced Lagos, the series explores themes of class, ambition, and social justice, providing a deep and meaningful narrative with characters who reflect the modern-day struggles and dreams of Nigerians.
Gbadamosi’s portrayal of the character in Iwájú has been praised for its depth and authenticity. As one of the leading voices in the series, Gbadamosi brought the character to life with remarkable energy and emotional complexity, earning her the recognition from the Television Academy. Her performance stands out in a cast that includes some of the best in animation, as her character challenges norms and embodies the resilience seen in Nigerian society.
The nomination marks an important milestone in Gbadamosi’s career, highlighting her ability to cross over from traditional acting to voice work in animation. Her exceptional talent was recognized in a year that saw strong competition from many global productions, yet her unique approach and dedication to her craft captured the attention of Emmy voters.
It is truly an honor to be recognized alongside such talented individuals in the industry. Iwájú has been an incredibly rewarding project, and I’m so grateful to be part of a series that celebrates African culture while telling such an impactful and relatable story, Gbadamosi said in a statement following the announcement of her nomination.
The actress has long been admired for her work in Nigerian cinema, but her participation in Iwájú shows her versatility and global appeal. Prior to her Emmy nomination, Gbadamosi had built a strong career in Nigerian film and television, earning accolades for her performances in both drama and comedy. This latest recognition at the international level is a testament to the growing global appreciation for African storytelling and talent.
The Iwájú nomination also shines a light on Disney’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in its content. The show’s blend of rich cultural storytelling with cutting-edge animation techniques has garnered praise not only for its narrative but also for its portrayal of African voices and perspectives in a way that resonates with audiences worldwide.
As the awards season heats up, Gbadamosi’s Emmy nomination is one that will certainly be celebrated by many. It highlights a new era in African representation in global media and is an inspiring moment for aspiring actors and creatives from the continent. The nomination is not only a career-defining moment for Gbadamosi but also a testament to the growing prominence of African talent on the world stage.
Iwájú has already been celebrated for its stunning animation, engaging storyline, and bold new approach to storytelling, making this Emmy nomination for Gbadamosi just one of many reasons why the series is being hailed as a milestone for African animation. The final Emmy Awards ceremony will take place later this year, and Gbadamosi’s nomination has only heightened anticipation for what promises to be a historic celebration of global talent.
