Actress Genevieve Nnaji is set to return to acting with Wahala, a BBC drama series adapted from author Nikki May’s debut novel of the same name.
The BBC announced the cast for the six part thriller on Tuesday, revealing that Genevieve will star alongside Adelayo Adedayo, Deborah Ayorinde, Cush Jumbo and Susan Wokoma.
Based on Nikki May’s debut novel, Wahala, a Nigerian word meaning ‘trouble’, follows four Nigerian British women in London whose friendships are tested by secrets, betrayal and events tied to their past.
Adapted by BAFTA nominated writer Theresa Ikoko (Rocks, Grime Kids), made by Firebird Pictures, part of BBC Studios, for BBC iPlayer and BBC One.
According to the synopsis, “When dark secrets and even darker pasts threaten to shatter the lives of the women, they and their friendships are pushed to their limit.”
Theresa Ikoko said,“I can’t wait to bring Wahala to life with this amazing cast, wonderful directors and brilliantly talented crew.”
Adelayo Adedayo said, “I am so excited to be bringing Theresa’s adaptation of Wahala to life, and I can’t wait to work alongside this wonderful cast. Get ready for a thrilling ride with this friendship group!”
Deborah Ayorinde said, “I’m so excited to be a part of this thrilling series. I’m also excited to embody a character that people haven’t seen from me before.”
Cush Jumbo said, “I’m very excited to be part of this show and to bring this fantastic story to the screen.”
Susan Wokoma said: “As a long fan of Theresa Ikoko and her exquisite writing, it is a honour to be a part of her powerhouse Wahala team. So excited to bring to life Nikki May’s world alongside three of this country’s most outstanding actresses – let’s go!”
Genevieve Nnaji said: “I’m very happy to be joining Wahala and to be working with such a brilliant team. It’s an intriguing story and I’m excited to be a part of it.”
The series is produced by Firebird Pictures, part of BBC Studios, for BBC iPlayer and BBC One. Directors attached to the project are Leonora Lonsdale, Theresa Ikoko and Remi Weekes, while Ado Yoshizaki Cassuto serves as producer.
Nikki May recently gained recognition in Nigeria’s literary scene after her novel This Motherless Land made the final three for the 2025 Nigeria Prize for Literature sponsored by NLNG. The prize was won by Oyin Olugbile for her novel Sanya, ahead of fellow finalists Nikki May and Chigozie Obioma.
