In recent years, a wave of international celebrities have taken steps to reconnect with their African ancestry. From DNA tests to cultural pilgrimages, these stars are embracing their roots and discovering the African nations from which their ancestors came. Here’s a look at some well-known figures and the countries they traced their heritage to:
Ciara – Benin
R&B superstar Ciara recently traced her ancestry to Benin, a West African nation rich in history and culture. The singer called the discovery a life-changing moment that gave her a new sense of identity and pride in her African heritage.
Ludacris – Gabon
Rapper and actor Ludacris not only traced his roots to Gabon, but went a step further by obtaining Gabonese citizenship in 2020. His visit to the country with his wife and daughters was filled with cultural experiences, and he proudly announced his new dual nationality as a moment of reconnection.
Tiffany Haddish – Eritrea
Comedian and actress Tiffany Haddish is of Eritrean descent. Her father was born in Eritrea, and she has visited the country multiple times. In 2019, she received an Eritrean passport and participated in Independence Day celebrations, embracing her father’s legacy.
Idris Elba – Ghana and Sierra Leone
British actor Idris Elba has a father from Sierra Leone and a mother from Ghana. He has visited both countries and spoken often about his pride in his West African heritage. In 2019, he visited Ghana as part of the Year of Return and has advocated for stronger ties between the continent and the diaspora.
Forest Whitaker – Nigeria
Oscar-winning actor Forest Whitaker discovered through ancestry tracing that his roots lie in Nigeria. He has since expressed a deep connection to African spirituality and culture, often citing how the discovery helped him understand more about his family’s past.
Nas – Nigeria
Hip-hop legend Nas traced his ancestry to Nigeria via a DNA test. The revelation has influenced his sense of identity and appreciation for African history, which is often reflected in the themes of his music.
Erykah Badu – Cameroon
Neo-soul singer Erykah Badu traced her ancestry to the Bamiléké people of Cameroon. She has openly shared her experience and the emotional impact of learning about her roots, calling it a deeply spiritual revelation.
Anthony Anderson – Cameroon
Comedic actor Anthony Anderson also traced his lineage to Cameroon, specifically to the Tikar people. He visited the country during the production of the series Finding Your Roots and connected with local traditions and rituals.
Oprah Winfrey – Liberia, Cameroon and Zambia
Media mogul Oprah Winfrey has ancestry in Cameroon, Liberia and Zambia, according to genetic testing. While she has not publicly visited those countries, she has acknowledged the emotional impact of discovering her African lineage and often speaks about Africa as a spiritual home.
Michael K. Williams – Sierra Leone
The late actor Michael K. Williams, best known for The Wire, traced his roots to Sierra Leone and made a highly publicized trip to the country in 2021. He engaged with local communities and spoke about how the journey helped him reconnect with his identity before his untimely passing.
As more celebrities trace their heritage back to Africa, these stories are inspiring millions across the diaspora to explore their own histories. Whether through DNA tests or in-person visits, each journey is a powerful reminder of the deep and enduring connections between Africa and its global descendants.
