When King of Boys premiered in 2018, it soared to an IMDb rating of 8/10 and became a global hit—thanks in part to its addition to Netflix. With a box-office haul surpassing ₦240 million, it shattered Nollywood records and marked a turning point for Nigerian cinema.
From Original Film to International Phenomenon
Directed by Kemi Adetiba, King of Boys follows Alhaja Eniola Salami, played by Sola Sobowale, a formidable businesswoman drawn into political intrigue. The cast included future stars Adesua Etomi, Osas Ighodaro, Illbliss, Reminisce, Toni Tones, Jide Kosoko, and Akin Lewis. The film collected multiple awards at the 2019 Africa Movie Academy Awards, including Best Actress for Sobowale.
King of Boys II: A Seven-Episode Netflix Thriller
Rather than a traditional sequel, King of Boys: The Return of the King debuted as a seven-episode Netflix series on August 27, 2021, reuniting many original cast members while deepening the political thriller narrative.
Cast returning: Sobowale, Illbliss, Reminisce, Akin Lewis, Toni Tones, Osas Ighodaro
New additions: Nse Ikpe-Etim, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Efa Iwara, Deyemi Okanlawon, Titi Kuti, Keppy Ekpeyong, Charly Boy, Sharon Ooja, Taiwo Ajayi‑Lycett
King of Boys 3: The Beginning of the End
On January 8, 2025, Adetiba confirmed via Instagram that King of Boys 3—subtitled The Beginning of the End—is scheduled for December 25, 2025 theatrical release. Sola Sobowale will definitely return as Eniola Salami.
🎬 Potential Cast Additions: What We Know So Far
Key original cast expected back: Nse Ikpe-Etim, Richard Mofe‑Damijo, Adesua Etomi, Toni Tones, Efa Iwara, Deyemi Okanlawon, and Illbliss.
New characters are being introduced, with casting calls underway for fresh faces to join the saga.
In earlier teasers (January 2023), Seun Kuti—son of Fela—was seen alongside Adetiba and Sobowale in Instagram teasers, sparking fan speculation he may appear in the film.
As Kemi Adetiba put it: “New characters getting introduced, and a few old ones returning... But the KOB impact remains the same… ELEVATED in every way you could imagine.”
Spotlight: Kemi Adetiba’s Vision Continues
Adetiba continues to build her international profile. After studying filmmaking at the New York Film Academy, she directed hits like The Wedding Party before the King of Boys franchise elevated her status. Her Instagram teasers and casting calls showcase her commitment to delivering an even more ambitious and polished third chapter.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect in King of Boys 3
Sola Sobowale confirmed as the returning lead
Fan-favourite returning actors likely: Toni Tones, RMD, Nse Ikpe-Etim, Illbliss, Deyemi Okanlawon, and Titi Kuti
Seun Kuti remains a strong fan-theorized new addition
Official new cast members to be announced soon—as casting and production gear up
Year | Milestone |
2018 | King of Boys released; blockbuster success; IMDb ~8/10; ₦240m+ gross |
2019 | Multiple AMAA awards, incl. Best Actress for Sobowale |
2021 | King of Boys: The Return of the King hits Netflix as a 7‑episode series |
2023–24 | Social media teasers hint at Seun Kuti and new characters |
Jan 8, 2025 | Sobowale & Adetiba confirm King of Boys 3, set for December 25, 2025 |
2025 | Casting in progress for returning stars and new roles |
With King of Boys 3 looming on the horizon, the franchise is shaping up for another cultural milestone. As the “KOB Army” waits for casting reveals, we can expect a thrilling mix of familiar faces and fresh talent—under Adetiba’s daring vision. The anticipation is real, and the countdown to The Beginning of the End has officially begun.
Rebeccah Mokuolu
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