African streamer Showmax is set to captivate audiences this November with its latest Nigerian original drama series, Princess on a Hill. Unveiled during the 2024 MIP Africa event at Cape Town’s Fame Week Africa festival, the series promises to deliver a powerful narrative steeped in corporate intrigue and ambition, reimagining timeless myths through a distinctly African lens.
The story centers on Zara, played by Onyinye Odokoro (Slum King), a young woman whose life takes a dramatic turn when she wins the Lawson Group’s Leading Ladies reality show. Tasked with rescuing the troubled company, Zara must navigate a world of power plays and ambition. Opposing her is Moyosore Lawson, the ruthless CEO brought to life by Bimbo Manuel (Breath of Life), fresh off his 2024 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award (AMVCA) win for Best Movie.
reimagining timeless myths through a distinctly African lens
Co-created by Abiola Sobo and Tolu Ajayi, Princess on a Hill blends corporate drama with mythic storytelling. Ajayi, whose debut film Over the Bridge premiered at the New York African Film Festival and earned 12 AMVCA nominations this year, describes the series as a modern African interpretation of a universal myth. “The business boardrooms are kingdoms, and the characters mirror archetypes from familiar tales—knights, jesters, and warrior princesses,” he explains. This interplay of myth and reality creates a rich tapestry of ambition, betrayal, and the cost of power.
commitment to showcasing authentic Nigerian stories and celebrating African creative talent
The ensemble cast also includes seasoned Nigerian actors like Ireti Doyle, Femi Jacobs, Norbert Young, Andrew Bunting, Efa Iwara, and Mimi Chaka. Behind the scenes, Chuka Ejorh and Shayo Oke-Sobo serve as co-executive producers, ensuring the series reflects both depth and authenticity.
Princess on a Hill is more than just a drama—it’s a reflection of the human journey. Sobo emphasizes its exploration of innocence lost and the innate human need for validation, themes universally relatable yet distinctly rooted in African experiences. The series, through its layered characters and high-stakes narrative, dives into the challenges of navigating ambition and identity in a world of shifting allegiances.
Busola Tejumola, executive head of content and channels for West Africa at MultiChoice, underscores the significance of Princess on a Hill. She highlights the show’s commitment to showcasing authentic Nigerian stories and celebrating African creative talent, paired with high production values that rival international standards.
As Showmax continues its mission to amplify African storytelling, Princess on a Hill stands as a testament to the vibrancy and diversity of the continent’s narratives. Whether through its compelling cast, ambitious creators, or universal themes filtered through an African lens, this drama promises to leave a lasting impression.
