‘Children of Blood and Bone’ Author Distances Herself From Movie Adaptation
Tomi Adeyemi, author of the bestselling novel Children of Blood and Bone, has spoken out about her distance from the upcoming film adaptation of her book, which is set to be released by Paramount Pictures on January 15, 2027.
She addressed the situation directly through social media, responding to fans who had noticed she was not actively promoting the project.
The film is directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood and is based on Adeyemi’s 2018 debut novel. It features a large ensemble cast including Thuso Mbedu, Tosin Cole, Amandla Stenberg, Damson Idris, Cynthia Erivo, Lashana Lynch, Regina King, Idris Elba, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Viola Davis. Adeyemi is still credited as an executive producer and also co-wrote the screenplay with Prince-Bythewood, according to production information shared publicly.
@tomi.adeyemi ✨🐉 for everyone’s who’s been asking – i’m answering this question once and for all. #childrenofbloodandbone #tomiadeyemi #booktok #blackbooktok ♬ original sound – shaalo_
In a TikTok video posted on Saturday, Adeyemi shared screenshots of private messages and posts explaining her current position. One message she included clearly stated her decision to step back from public association with the film. “There is a reason I will not post anything about the adaptation of my work. That’s all,” she wrote in a message shown in the video.
The post also included another message that appeared to be directed at actress Amandla Stenberg, who plays Princess Amari in the film. In that message, Adeyemi asked to be left out of future discussions and contact. “Do not ever use my name in an interview or video again. Do not text me. Do not call me.” she wrote.
According to the time stamp shown in the screenshot, the message was sent in February 2025. That timing places it during a period when Stenberg had spoken publicly about online backlash related to her casting and colorism discussions, saying at the time that Adeyemi had supported her involvement. That earlier post has since been removed.
Adeyemi’s TikTok post also included further comments about her feelings toward the adaptation. She said she has not seen the completed film and does not plan to watch it. “Since someone asked, I have not seen the film, and I will not watch it,” she wrote. “It’s been painful holding this back from you all.”
She also added a message directed at her readers, stressing that her connection to the audience remains unchanged even if her involvement with the film has shifted.
“I do not mind anyone going to watch the film. I wrote this for us. I fought for us. I’m just laying down my sword and officially separating my name because I can’t keep being hurt and attacked behind the scenes.”
Despite her distance from the film’s promotion, Adeyemi is still officially involved as an executive producer. She also co-wrote the screenplay alongside director Gina Prince-Bythewood, who has spoken previously about adapting the fantasy novel for the screen. At CinemaCon earlier this year, Prince-Bythewood appeared with several cast members, including Stenberg, Mbedu, Idris, Ejiofor, and King, where she introduced early footage from the film and praised the story’s significance.
Will you be watching Children of Blood and Bone?
The adaptation of Children of Blood and Bone remains one of Paramount’s major upcoming fantasy releases, but Adeyemi’s recent statements show a clear emotional and professional separation from its ongoing promotion.
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