What is Lupita Nyong’o Doing Now?
Lupita Nyong’o has been actively promoting her latest film projects and has ventured into new creative territories.
Professionally, she recently starred in the horror prequel A Quiet Place: Day One and is the lead voice actor in the animated DreamWorks film, The Wild Robot. Adding to her diverse portfolio, she has also launched a new podcast called Mind Your Own, where she presents true stories from the African diaspora.
This PriveTalk article serves as your ultimate guide to the enigmatic star, updated with the latest information as of June 2025. We’re delving into answering the question: Who is Lupita Nyong’o dating now? We’ll also get into a comprehensive relationship history and a closer examination of her time with Joshua Jackson.
Beyond her romantic life, we’ll explore her impressive career, family background, net worth, and a curated list of fascinating facts that shed light on the woman behind the award-winning performances.
13 Exclusive Facts About Lupita Nyong’o
It’s easy to be captivated by Lupita Nyong’o. From her groundbreaking, Oscar-winning film debut to her commanding presence on the red carpet, she radiates intelligence, grace, and an undeniable star power. But beyond the screen and the style, there are layers of fascinating details that make her one of Hollywood’s most compelling figures.
1. She is a Citizen of Two Nations
Lupita was born in Mexico City, Mexico, to Kenyan parents, Peter and Dorothy Nyong’o. Her father was a visiting lecturer in political science at El Colegio de México at the time. Due to her birthplace and parentage, she holds dual Kenyan and Mexican citizenship and proudly identifies as “Kenyan-Mexican.”
2. Her Oscar Win Was a Record-Breaking Debut
When Lupita won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Patsey in 12 Years a Slave (2013), it was a monumental achievement for several reasons. Not only was it her first-ever feature film role, but the win also made her the first Kenyan-Mexican actress to win an Oscar.
3. She is a Talented Polyglot
Intelligence runs in the family, and Lupita is no exception. She is fluent in four languages: English, Spanish, Swahili, and her native language, Luo. Her parents sent her to Mexico for a few months at age 16 to formally learn Spanish, a skill she has showcased in various interviews, further connecting her to her Mexican heritage.
4. Her Name Carries a Cultural Tradition
Her name, Lupita, is a Spanish diminutive of Guadalupe. Her parents chose it based on a Luo tradition of naming a child after the events of the day. Since she was born in Mexico, they gave her a Mexican name, beautifully blending her African roots with her place of birth.
5. She Comes From a Prominent Political Family
Lupita’s father, Peter Anyang Nyong’o, is a major figure in Kenyan politics. He has served as a Senator and is currently the Governor of Kisumu County in Kenya. Her family was in political exile when she was born, adding a layer of profound history to her family’s story.
6. Her Film Career Started Behind the Scenes
Before she ever stepped in front of the camera for a major role, Lupita was learning the ropes behind it. In 2005, she worked as a production assistant on the set of the film The Constant Gardener, which was being filmed in her hometown of Kenya.
7. She’s an Ivy League Graduate
Adding to her impressive resume, Lupita earned a master’s degree in acting from the highly prestigious Yale School of Drama in 2012. She landed her life-changing role in 12 Years a Slave shortly before graduating.
8. She’s a #1 New York Times Bestselling Author
Lupita is also a celebrated author. Her children’s book, Sulwe, which explores the topic of colorism through the story of a young girl with dark skin, was published in 2019. The book was a massive success, hitting #1 on the New York Times Best-Seller list.
9. She Ignored Some “Terrible” Post-Oscar Advice
In an interview with People, Lupita revealed that after winning her Oscar, she was advised to be cautious with her career and was specifically warned against taking on a role with heavy CGI. She called it “terrible advice” and promptly ignored it to play the motion-capture character Maz Kanata in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, a role she cherished.
10. She Has a Rapping Alter-Ego
During a 2014 appearance on a talk show, Lupita revealed she has a rapping alter-ego named “Troublemaker.” She even dropped a few impressive bars, showcasing another one of her hidden talents.
11. She Directed an Award-Winning Documentary
While studying at Hampshire College, Lupita wrote, directed, and produced a feature-length documentary titled In My Genes (2009). The film examines the treatment of people with albinism in Kenya and has been shown at several film festivals.
12. She’s a Global Fashion Icon
From the moment she stepped onto the scene, Lupita has been a force in the fashion world. Her bold, elegant, and vibrant red carpet looks consistently land her on best-dressed lists. Her iconic, baby blue Prada gown from the 2014 Oscars remains one of the most iconic looks from the Academy Awards of all time.
13. Her Cousin Was Named One of the “Most Powerful Women”
Talent and influence are family traits. In 2012, Isis Nyong’o Madison, Lupita’s cousin, was named one of the “20 Youngest Power Women in Africa” by Forbes for her work as the Vice President and Managing Director of the African division of InMobi, a mobile advertising network.
Who is Lupita Nyong’o Dating Now?
Lupita Nyong’o has always navigated her love life with a signature blend of privacy and grace, leaving fans intrigued and supportive of her happiness.
As of June 2025, Lupita is single. Her most recent public romance was with Canadian actor Joshua Jackson. Their relationship made headlines in October 2023 when they were spotted together at a Janelle Monáe concert, shortly after both had ended previous long-term relationships.
The pair officially confirmed their romance in December 2023 with a very public display of affection, holding hands and sharing smiles while running errands in Joshua Tree, California.
The relationship, however, was short-lived, and sources confirmed that the couple had parted ways by the fall of 2024. Confirming the news, Lupita cheekily told TMZ she’s currently not dating and is instead happily “committed to my cat.”
9 Engaging Facts About Joshua Jackson
Joshua Jackson has been a fixture on our screens for decades, evolving from a beloved teen idol into a versatile and acclaimed actor. His journey is marked by numerous interesting milestones and personal details that have shaped his impressive career.
1. He’s a Mighty Ducks Original
Long before he was Pacey Witter, Jackson’s first major film role was as the determined and loyal team captain, Charlie Conway, in Disney’s The Mighty Ducks trilogy (1992-1996). The role made him a recognizable face for a generation of young movie-goers.
2. His Most Iconic Role Was Pacey Witter
From 1998 to 2003, Jackson starred as the sarcastic, witty, and ultimately romantic Pacey Witter on the hit teen drama Dawson’s Creek. The role made him a household name and an enduring heartthrob of the late ’90s.
3. He’s a Star of Science Fiction
Showcasing his range, Jackson stepped into the world of sci-fi as Peter Bishop in the J.J. Abrams-produced series Fringe. He starred in the critically acclaimed show for all five of its seasons, from 2008 to 2013.
4. His Mother is a Casting Director
Talent for spotting stars seems to run in the family. Joshua’s mother, Fiona Jackson, is a successful casting director who has worked on numerous film and television projects.
5. He’s a Proud Canadian
Though a star in the American entertainment industry, Jackson is proudly Canadian. He was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, and spent his early years there before moving to California.
6. He’s a Father
Jackson shares one child, a daughter named Juno Rose Diana Jackson, born in April 2020, with his ex-wife, actress Jodie Turner-Smith.
7. He Starred in the Chilling ‘Dr. Death’
Jackson received widespread critical acclaim for his unsettling portrayal of the real-life neurosurgeon Dr. Christopher Duntsch in the Peacock limited series Dr. Death. The role was a dark departure that highlighted his dramatic capabilities.
8. He Was Married to Jodie Turner-Smith
Jackson married British actress and model Jodie Turner-Smith in late 2019. The couple became a red-carpet favorite known for their stunning style. Turner-Smith filed for divorce in October 2023, citing “irreconcilable differences.”
9. He Had a Decade-Long Romance with Diane Kruger
Before his marriage, Jackson was in a long-term and very public relationship with German-American actress Diane Kruger. The couple was together for ten years, from 2006 to 2016.
Complete List of Lupita Nyong’o’s Exes and Joshua Jackson’s Exes
Both Lupita Nyong’o and Joshua Jackson have had high-profile relationships over the years, though Lupita has famously kept her romantic life much more private than her recent ex.
Lupita Nyong’o’s exes
Joshua Jackson
Lupita’s most recent public relationship was with actor Joshua Jackson. Their romance began in late 2023 and ended by the fall of 2024. Their relationship was notable as it began shortly after both had ended significant prior relationships.
Selema Masekela
Before dating Jackson, Lupita was in a relationship with TV host and sports commentator Selema Masekela, son of the late South African jazz musician Hugh Masekela. They went public in December 2022. In October 2023, Lupita announced their breakup in a raw and emotional social media post, writing about the pain that comes from “a love suddenly extinguished by deception.”
K’naan
Lupita dated Somali-Canadian musician Keinan Abdi Warsame, better known as K’naan, from 2013 to 2014. The relationship coincided with her rapid rise to fame following her Oscar win for 12 Years a Slave.
Jared Leto (Rumored)
Throughout the 2014 awards season, rumors flew about a possible romance between Lupita and fellow Oscar winner Jared Leto. Their incredible chemistry and frequent praise for one another fueled the speculation, but the relationship was never officially confirmed, and they have maintained they are just good friends.
Michael B. Jordan (Rumored)
Thanks to their electric chemistry as on-screen love interests in Black Panther, fans have long hoped for a real-life romance between Lupita and Michael B. Jordan. However, both actors have consistently stated that they are simply very close friends.
Joshua Jackson’s exes
Lupita Nyong’o
Jackson’s most recent ex is, of course, Lupita Nyong’o. They dated for approximately a year from late 2023 to late 2024.
Jodie Turner-Smith
Jackson was married to actress Jodie Turner-Smith. They began dating in 2018, got married in 2019, and welcomed their daughter in 2020. Turner-Smith filed for divorce in October 2023.
Diane Kruger
Jackson’s longest public relationship was with actress Diane Kruger. The two were a prominent Hollywood couple for an entire decade, from 2006 to 2016.
Katie Holmes
During the height of Dawson’s Creek mania, Jackson dated his co-star, Katie Holmes. Their young romance lasted from 1998 to 1999, and Holmes has famously called him her “first love.”
Brittany Daniel
Shortly after his split from Katie Holmes, Jackson dated another co-star from Dawson’s Creek, Brittany Daniel, who played a memorable recurring character. They were together from 1999 to 2000.
Stay up-to-date with the latest news on these exes on Celebrity Dating News.
Lupita Nyong’o Biography
Lupita’s story is one of academic brilliance and a meteoric rise to Oscar-winning fame in the global spotlight, rooted in a prominent Kenyan political family.
Lupita Nyong’o’s biography
Lupita Amondi Nyong’o was born on March 1, 1983, in Mexico City, Mexico. Her parents, Dorothy and Peter Anyang Nyong’o, are Kenyan, and her father, a prominent Kenyan politician, was a visiting lecturer in political science at the time. Due to her family being in political exile, Lupita was born abroad. Still, she was raised in Kenya from the age of three, making her a proud dual citizen of both Kenya and Mexico.
Her path to acting was paved with a stellar education. She attended Hampshire College in the U.S., earning a degree in film and African studies. Before becoming a household name, she worked behind the scenes as a production assistant for the 2005 film The Constant Gardener.
Her ambition then took her to the prestigious Yale School of Drama, where she earned a master’s degree in acting in 2012. In a career-defining moment, she was cast in 12 Years a Slave just before graduating, a role that earned her the 2014 Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and launched her into international stardom.
Lupita Nyong’o Net Worth
Lupita’s net worth experienced a significant increase after her 2014 Oscar win.
| Feature | Lupita Nyong’o |
|---|---|
| Estimated Net Worth | $10 Million |
| Primary Income Sources | Blockbuster Films, Independent Films |
| Key Endorsements | Lancôme, Tiffany & Co. |
| Wealth Trajectory | Rapid growth post-2013 |
Lupita Nyong’o’s net worth
As of 2025, Lupita Nyong’o’s net worth is estimated to be $10 million. The vast majority of her wealth has been accumulated in the decade following her Academy Award victory. Her income streams comprise a potent mix of blockbuster movie salaries from franchises like Star Wars and Marvel’s Black Panther, as well as significant, long-term endorsement deals with luxury brands like the French cosmetics giant Lancôme, for which she became the first Black ambassador.
She is also a #1 New York Times bestselling author for her children’s book, Sulwe.
Lupita is notably private about her large personal assets, like real estate and vehicles. Her net worth saw a dramatic spike after 2013, as her status as an Oscar-winning actress and a celebrated fashion icon made her one of the most in-demand talents in Hollywood, capable of commanding high salaries for film roles and seven-figure sums for endorsements.
Lupita Nyong’o Age, Height and Weight
Lupita’s signature dark brown eyes and black hair make her a striking figure on the screen.
Lupita Nyong’o’s age, weight, and height
Born on March 1, 1983, Lupita is 42 years old as of 2025. She stands at a reported height of 5 feet 5 inches (approximately 165 cm) and maintains a toned physique, weighing approximately 119 pounds (54 kg).
Her striking features are complemented by her deep brown eyes and natural black hair, which she famously styles in a variety of creative and elegant ways, making her a celebrated icon of beauty and fashion.
Lupita Nyong’o’s Diet and Fitness
Lupita Nyong’o is renowned for her disciplined and intense approach to fitness, frequently undertaking rigorous training regimens to prepare for her physically demanding roles. Her diet and workout plans are well-documented, reflecting a commitment to building strength and endurance.
For her role as the Wakandan spy Nakia in Black Panther, Lupita worked with a personal trainer and followed a strict, nutritionist-designed diet to get into peak physical condition. The diet was high in lean protein and healthy produce, focusing on flavorful, well-balanced meals that were rich in nutrients.
Her daily intake typically included foods such as chicken breast, fish, whole grains, and a variety of vegetables. To prepare for the intense stunt work, her workouts involved a mix of resistance training, martial arts, and extensive stretching.
Even when not training for a specific role, Lupita maintains a consistent fitness routine, which she occasionally shares with her followers on social media. She has posted videos of herself doing impressive workouts, including a session where she powered through 50 glute bridges.
Her fitness philosophy also includes finding joy in movement; she has taken up pole dancing as a form of self-care and exercise, emphasizing how learning new physical skills keeps her sharp. Her overall approach is one of holistic wellness, where diet and exercise work in tandem to support her physical and mental well-being.
Lupita Nyong’o’s Hobbies and Interests
Lupita Nyong’o channels her passions into meaningful activities beyond her acting career; her off-screen interests in activism and the creative arts are well-documented.
Lupita Nyong’o’s hobbies
Lupita’s interests are as diverse and impressive as her acting roles. She is a passionate activist, particularly for wildlife conservation. She works with the organization WildAid as a global elephant ambassador, using her platform to advocate against ivory poaching. Her activism also extends to women’s rights and the preservation of history.
Beyond her advocacy, Lupita has a deep love for the creative arts. She is an accomplished author; her children’s book Sulwe, which addresses colorism, became a #1 New York Times bestseller.
She also directed, produced, and wrote the award-winning documentary “In My Genes,” which explores the experiences of people with albinism in Kenya. She believes in the power of learning new things as a form of self-care, which has led her to explore hobbies like pole dancing and mastering the ukulele.
Lupita Nyong’o’s Parents and Family
Lupita Nyong’o’s family has a rich and complex history, deeply rooted in Kenyan politics and academia.
| Feature | Lupita Nyong’o |
|---|---|
| Father | Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o |
| Mother | Dorothy Ogada Buyu Nyong’o |
| Siblings | 5 siblings (including brother Peter Nyong’o Jr.) |
| Children | None |
| Notable Relative | Cousin Isis Nyong’o Madison (Tech Entrepreneur) |
Lupita Nyong’o’s family
Lupita is the second of six children born to Dorothy and Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o. Her family’s story is one of incredible resilience and political significance. Her father, Peter, is a prominent Kenyan politician who is currently serving as the Governor of Kisumu County. Her mother, Dorothy, is the managing director of the Africa Cancer Foundation.
The family was living in political exile in Mexico when Lupita was born, a direct result of her father’s opposition to the authoritarian regime in Kenya at the time.
The family has endured immense hardship. Lupita’s father has spoken about the brutality they faced; he was once beaten into a coma, and his own brother, Charles Nyong’o, disappeared in 1980 after being thrown from a ferry, a tragedy the family believes was politically motivated.
Despite this turmoil, her parents instilled in her a love for the arts and a deep appreciation for education, sending her to the U.S. for college and supporting her journey to the Yale School of Drama.
Lupita Nyong’o Friends List
Lupita Nyong’o’s inner circle is a vibrant mix of collaborators, fellow activists, and creative powerhouses, often celebrated publicly as her “ride-or-die” support system.
Lupita Nyong’o’s friends
Lupita’s friendships are deeply intertwined with her professional and personal passions. Her bond with actress and playwright Danai Gurira is one of her most well-known. They starred together in Black Panther, and Lupita has called Danai her “ride-or-die co-star, playwright, producing partner, and dearest friend.” Their connection was forged in the theater, with Lupita starring in Gurira’s acclaimed play, Eclipsed.
She shared a profound friendship with her late Black Panther co-star, Chadwick Boseman. On what would have been his birthday in November 2023, she shared a touching tribute, calling him a “heroic friend” and stating, “I am blessed that his time on this earth coincided with mine.”
Her circle also includes musician Janelle Monáe, at whose concert she and Joshua Jackson were first seen together, as well as her trusted hairstylist and friend, Vernon François, with whom she has collaborated on her iconic hair looks for years.
Latest News on Lupita Nyong’o
The most significant recent news concerning the former couple is, of course, their breakup. After a whirlwind romance that began in the fall of 2023, sources confirmed that Lupita Nyong’o and Joshua Jackson had split by the fall of 2024.
Lupita later confirmed the news herself, stating that she is single and humorously “committed to my cat.” Following the split, Jackson was quickly rumored to be dating someone new.
Individually, Lupita has been busy with exciting new ventures. In September 2024, she launched a brand-new podcast titled Mind Your Own, which features true stories from across the African diaspora. She has also been promoting her latest films, including the horror prequel A Quiet Place: Day One and the animated DreamWorks feature, The Wild Robot.
This article has taken you on a deep dive into the lives of Lupita Nyong’o and her most recent ex, Joshua Jackson. We’ve explored their relationship timeline, fascinating personal facts, family histories, net worth, and their social circles. Last updated in June 2025, we’ve brought you the most current information on these compelling stars.
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Lupita Nyong’O FAQs
Is Lupita Nyong’o single?
Yes, as of June 2025, Lupita Nyong’o is single. Her most recent public relationship with actor Joshua Jackson ended in the fall of 2024 after about a year of dating. She confirmed her single status in October 2024, humorously telling reporters she was now “committed to my cat.”
How old is Lupita Nyong’o?
Lupita Nyong’o was born on March 1, 1983, making her 42 years old as of 2025. She won her first Academy Award at the age of 31 for her debut feature film role in 12 Years a Slave. Her zodiac sign is Pisces.
How tall is Lupita Nyong’o?
Lupita Nyong’o stands at a height of approximately 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm). She often accentuates her frame with elegant and bold fashion choices, making her a standout style icon on international red carpets. Her reported weight is around 119 pounds (54 kg).
Where is Lupita Nyong’o from?
Lupita Nyong’o was born in Mexico City, Mexico, to Kenyan parents and was raised in Kenya from the age of three. She proudly holds dual Kenyan and Mexican citizenship and self-identifies as “Kenyan-Mexican.” At age 16, her parents sent her back to Mexico for several months to formally learn Spanish.
Where does Lupita Nyong’o live?
Lupita Nyong’o primarily resides in a beautiful apartment in the Fort Greene neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York. She reportedly purchased the home in a pre-war co-op building. While she travels globally for work, her Brooklyn residence serves as her main home base.
How much is Lupita Nyong’o worth?
As of 2025, Lupita Nyong’o has an estimated net worth of $10 million. A significant portion of her wealth stems from her blockbuster movie roles and major endorsement deals, including her appointment as the first Black ambassador for the luxury beauty brand Lancôme. Her career took off financially after her 2014 Oscar win, making her one of Hollywood’s most in-demand actresses.
What’s the nationality and ethnicity of Lupita Nyong’o?
Lupita Nyong’o holds dual Kenyan and Mexican nationality. She was born in Mexico City, Mexico, to Kenyan parents and was raised primarily in Kenya. Ethnically, she is of the Luo tribe from Kenya, a Nilotic ethnic group.
Who is Lupita Nyong’o married to?
Lupita Nyong’o is not currently married and has never been married. As of June 2025, she is single. Her most recent public relationship was with actor Joshua Jackson, which ended in the fall of 2024.
What is Lupita Nyong’o’s favorite color and number?
Lupita Nyong’o has not publicly stated a favorite number, but she has a clear affinity for a specific color that has defined some of her most iconic moments. She has referred to the shade of her famous 2014 Oscars Prada gown as “Nairobi blue,” a color that reminds her of the sky in her Kenyan home. While she wears a wide spectrum of colors, this particular shade of blue holds a special significance for her.
What is Lupita Nyong’o known for?
Lupita Nyong’o is most famous for her acting career, which had a meteoric start when she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her debut feature film role in 12 Years a Slave (2013).
She is also known for her roles as Nakia in the billion-dollar-grossing Black Panther franchise and as a global fashion icon. Additionally, she is a #1 New York Times bestselling author for her children’s book Sulwe.
What happened to Lupita Nyong’o?
Recently, Lupita Nyong’o has been busy expanding her career into new creative fields while continuing her work in film. In September 2024, she launched a new podcast, Mind Your Own, which tells true stories from the African diaspora. This venture came alongside her leading roles in the 2024 films A Quiet Place: Day One and the animated feature The Wild Robot.
When is Lupita Nyong’o’s birthday?
Lupita Nyong’o’s birthday is on March 1, 1983. This makes her a Pisces, a sign often associated with creativity and compassion. As of her birthday in 2025, she is 42 years old.