Nigerian-American Pepi Sonuga stars as Elaine White in Tyler Perry’s new film The Six Triple Eight.
The film tells the inspiring true story of the first and only all-Black, all-female US Women’s Army Corps unit deployed overseas during World War II.
Others in the ensemble cast include Kerry Washington, Ebony Obsidian, Oprah Winfrey and Dean Norris.
Here are 13 fascinating facts about Pepi Sonuga.
1. Nigerian roots
Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Pepi Sonuga was born to a Yoruba father and Igbo mother – representing two of Nigeria’s major ethnic groups. She relocated to Los Angeles at 10 years old to chase her entertainment dreams.
2. Age and star sign
Pepi was born on September 8, 1993. At 31, she is a proud Virgo.
3. Early modeling success
At just 15, she was crowned Miss Teen Los Angeles, marking the start of her journey into modelling and acting.
4. Breakout role
Pepi’s career took off in 2013 with her performance as Michelle in Life of a King. Her other film credits include Weigh Money, Under the Silver Lake, Thriller and Leprechaun Returns.
5. TV appearances
She has featured in notable series like General Hospital, Famous in Love, Into the Dark, The Fosters, Queens and Ash vs Evil Dead.
6. Afrobeats enthusiast
Pepi holds a deep love for Afrobeats, appreciating its empowering messages, particularly for women.
7. Favourite Nigerian song
Runtown’s 2016 love-themed hit ‘Mad Over You’ is Pepi’s favourite Nigerian song. The icing on the cake for the actress was seeing the singer perform the song live at her cousin’s wedding in Nigeria.
8. Favourite Nigerian author
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, the celebrated author of Half of a Yellow Sun, is her favourite writer. Pepi admires Adichie’s ability to evoke raw emotions through storytelling.
9. Favourite Nigerian food
While Jollof rice is easily the most recognised Nigerian food globally (no thanks to the rivalry with Ghana), Pepi’s top choice is egusi soup paired with pounded yam, a dish she enjoys and was taught to cook by her mother.
10. Favourite Nollywood show on Netflix
Kemi Adetiba’s King of Boys is her favourite Nollywood show on Netflix, with Sola Sobowale’s powerful performance standing out. For Pepi, such roles remind her that age is no barrier to a thriving career in Hollywood.
11. Hobbies
When not on set, Pepi enjoys reading and writing, activities that fuel her creativity.
12. Favorite Nigerian slang
Her go-to phrases include “sha” and “pepper dem,” expressions that keep her connected to her Nigerian heritage.
13. Musical talent
Beyond acting, Pepi is a singer. Her portrayal of pop star characters in Famous in Love and Queens mirrors her musical abilities.
Pepi Sonuga continues to excel as a multi-talented star, proudly representing Nigeria on the global stage.
