Another story about the Dahomey Warriors is in the works. Nigeria-based production company and TV network EbonyLife has signed a three-series deal with Sony, and the first project will be an action drama inspired by “the the female fighters who came together to protect their kingdom,” Variety confirms.
Oscar winners Viola Davis and Lupita Nyong’o also have a project about the Dahomey Warriors on the way. Based on an original story by “Lights Out” actress Maria Bello, the TriStar Pictures’ film is titled “The Woman King.” The future series, meanwhile, is currently untitled, and will be distributed internationally by Sony Pictures Television.
The West African kingdom of Dahomey is now the Republic of Benin.
EbonyLife launched in 2013 as “an upscale international black TV network,” the source details. A household name in Africa, company CEO and talk show host Mo Abudu has been compared to Oprah Winfrey.
“Ever since our launch in June 2013, our vision has always been to change the narrative about Africa and to tell our stories from our perspective,” said Abudu. “Now we have the opportunity to bring the fascinating story of the Dahomey Warriors, and many others like it, to audiences around the world. It has been hard work getting here, but that’s what we are known for at EbonyLife. As I always say, ‘If you can think it, you can do it.’’’
Wayne Garvie, president of international production for SPT, added, “Mo Abudu is one of the most formidable and creative figures in Nigerian television, and with EbonyLife, [she] and the team are creating something that is truly groundbreaking and extraordinary. Our aim is to help EbonyLife create a portfolio of African content that will fulfill their aim of being one of Africa’s prime creator[s] of premium content.”
When asked what advice she’d give to those who dream of following in her footsteps, Abudu encouraged women to “Never ever see your gender as a handicap. Never think yourself inferior. Be ready to do twice the work for half the usual reward,” she said. “When the door isn’t opened, kick down the door. Take the regular harassment and other obstacles women face in stride. In fact, be prepared for them. Be prepared to be told off, to be told you are not good enough, to go unrewarded for even doing the same work your male counterpart has done. Work with your passion, let it consume and drive you. Do not be distracted. On down days, it will keep you going.”
