‘I knew I was destined for something great’ – Black Panther/Wakanda Forever star Letitia Wright returns home
By Lazeena Yearwood
Famous Guyanese-British actress Letitia Wright, best known for her role in the Black Panther franchise, received a hearty welcome back to Guyana on Friday.
The International Blockbluster “Black Panther” star migrated decades ago with her family to London, England. But the 29-year-old has never shied away from her Guyanese roots.
After a flight from the United Kingdom to Guyana’s Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri, which arrived at 22:22 hrs, Wright was met with special performances by the National School of Dance, steel-pan music and a personal welcome by the Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Oneidge Walrond.
But the international star became the most emotional when she was hugging her father and grandmother, who were part of the welcome team.
Wright was in tears as she soaked in the grand displays and welcome party after years abroad, building her career as an actress.
During her address to the press, the Black Panther star said as the plane was landing, she was reminded of her last day in Guyana. She said even as a child, she knew she was destined for something great.
She recalled being sad about leaving her family but frustrated that she had missed her initial flight. Wright said even at that age, she knew there was something special waiting for her and she had to get it.
“At the age of eight, I knew there was something for me to do. I didn’t know that I would go away for so long. So, as I was landing, I was remembering that little girl and how frustrated she was and not knowing how much she would miss her country and how much she would mean to her country…I just went to the UK and got an opportunity,” she said.
Wright played the lead role of “Shuri”- a scientist and now Queen of Wakanda in the Black Panther movie franchise. In her role, she captivated the hearts of fans across the globe, but especially in her homeland.
Last November, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever became a box office hit after being released in theatres worldwide.
Soon after its release, President Dr irfaan Ali praised the star for her role and congratulated her on her successful career. He also extended an invitation for her to visit Guyana.
The young actress said acting has always been a part of her but she never knew she would become such an influence on the world and especially a role model for young people here.
“If anyone looks at me, I’m really just really humble. I come from a humble background and I just got an opportunity and always try to use my talent for good. I just hope that no matter how old you are, you just continue to reach for your dreams,” she encouraged.
During her stay in Guyana, Wright will meet with President Ali and tour several sites in Guyana as the country celebrates her success in the film industry.
Among her activities, she will give an inspirational talk to young actors in Guyana. She will also watch her film with a group of Guyanese.
Wright has also starred in Sing 2, which was Oscar-nominated for best-animated feature; Death on the Nile; The Silent Twins; the movie adaptation of Ready Player One; Aisha; Avengers End Game; Avengers Infinity War; Mangrove; Urban Hymn; Guava Island and many others.
