Lupita Nyong'o, an Academy Award-winning actress known for her standout roles in films like "12 Years a Slave" and "Black Panther," shares her unique journey. She discusses how her father's activism shaped her childhood and the feelings of homesickness she often experiences. The conversation dives into her struggles with developing an American accent, the complexities of navigating fame, and the importance of embracing failure. Nyong'o also reflects on the emotional weight of her Oscar win and her passion for storytelling through diverse narratives.
Lupita Nyong'o's childhood was profoundly shaped by her father's political activism, instilling in her a sense of belonging and identity.
Navigating the pressures of fame after her Academy Award win led Lupita to confront confusion and anxiety in the entertainment industry.
The character Roz from 'The Wild Robot' symbolizes the emotional connection between technology and humanity, reflecting deeper narrative themes.
Lupita's podcast 'Mind Your Own' aims to amplify African narratives and explore themes of belonging and homesickness through personal stories.
Through fashion, Lupita expresses her identity and emphasizes the empowerment that comes from celebrating diversity in personal style.
Deep dives
The Introductory Banter
The episode begins with lighthearted and humorous banter between the hosts and their guest. Dax Shepard and Lily Patman engage in playful dialogue about their outfits, specifically a Mickey Mouse-themed attire, which leads to discussions about their families and personal anecdotes. The conversation is casual and sets a friendly tone for the interview, with references to common themes familiar among fans of their work. Additional observations include audience reactions to various backgrounds visible during filming, hinting at the interactive nature of their podcast.
Guest Introduction
Academy Award-winning actress Lupita Nyong'o joins the show, sparking a detailed conversation about her recent projects, including the animated film 'The Wild Robot.' This project resonates with the hosts as they share fond memories of their favorite children’s books, hinting at the emotional themes tied to those stories. They discuss the significance of the character she voices, focusing on how the robot, Roz, develops a heart and a motherly attachment despite being a machine. The discussion emphasizes the blending of technology and human emotion, showcasing the film's deeper narrative.
The Impact of Audible
Dax shares how he uses Audible to indulge in literature and learning, highlighting his nightly routine of listening to audiobooks as a way to educate himself effortlessly. The hosts reflect on how audiobooks can spark imagination and offer endless possibilities, emphasizing the convenience of Audible for busy individuals. Dax mentions listening to the works of Dostoevsky, indicating a commitment to expansive reading and personal growth. This segment reinforces the value of storytelling in various forms, making it accessible to all.
Lupita’s Journey and Background
Lupita shares her family's journey from Kenya, detailing how her father entered political exile in Mexico and the impact this had on their lives. Growing up amidst political turmoil while still feeling the love and stability of her family is a theme she explores, revealing the complexities of her identity. She discusses her upbringing and education, ultimately leading to her later acceptance into prestigious schools and her journey into acting. This background shapes her perspective, shedding light on her experiences navigating cultural differences and adjusting to life in different countries.
Cultural Identity and Belonging
The discussion touches upon the concept of identity and belonging, with Lupita explaining how her experiences have made her feel both at home and foreign in various places. The contrast she feels between her roots in Kenya and her life in America reveals the tension many immigrants face as they navigate multiple identities. Lupita reflects on her family's emphasis on education and the importance of understanding one’s heritage while also adapting to new cultures. This conversation deepens the understanding of what it means to belong in a globalized world.
Acting Challenges and Triumphs
Lupita elaborates on the challenges of transitioning from acting in her debut film to dealing with the immediate pressures of fame that followed her Academy Award win. She expresses the confusion and anxiety that arose from suddenly being thrust into the public eye, while trying to navigate expectations in a highly competitive industry. The actress speaks honestly about the importance of vulnerability in her craft, noting that her desire for authenticity is essential for connecting with audiences. This exploration of success and pressures resonates with many in creative fields.
Fashion and Self-Expression
The conversation veers into the realm of fashion, with Lupita discussing her experiences sitting front row at fashion events and how that has influenced her identity. She reflects on how clothing can serve as a form of self-expression and reminds the audience that real beauty comes from the ability to be oneself. The focus on fashion also highlights the idea of empowerment through personal style, and Lupita emphasizes the importance of supporting and uplifting diverse voices in the fashion industry. This aligns with her broader narrative of celebrating individuality and inclusion.
New Projects – 'Mind Your Own'
Lupita introduces her podcast 'Mind Your Own,' a storytelling platform focused on sharing African narratives and broadening the understanding of the African experience. She describes the show's mission of exploring themes of belonging and homesickness through personal stories from individuals in various backgrounds and regions. The podcast is framed as a way to amplify underrepresented voices and foster connections among audiences. This segment emphasizes the importance of storytelling in bridging cultural divides and enriching perspectives.
Conclusion of the Episode
As the episode wraps up, the hosts and Lupita express gratitude for the insightful conversation and the cultural exchanged shared. Dax encourages listeners to check out both 'The Wild Robot' and 'Mind Your Own,' underscoring the importance of supporting artistic endeavors that celebrate diversity. The exchange captures a sense of joy that comes from storytelling, whether it be through film or podcasts, creating a lasting impact. The episode leaves listeners with a feeling of connection and inspiration to engage with diverse narratives.
Lupita Nyong’o (The Wild Robot, Mind Your Own, Black Panther) is an actor. Lupita joins the Armchair Expert to discuss how her father’s political activism affected her childhood, feeling homeless and homesick wherever she is, and growing up on American television. Lupita and Dax talk about the internal battle of developing her American accent, the identity crisis that it caused, and how much she loves earnestness. Lupita explains how she learned to shed her ego, the importance of allowing yourself to fail, and why her Academy Award had an extra special meaning for her.
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