Biyi Bandele, a Nigerian novelist, playwright, director of Half of a Yellow Sun and co-director of Blood Sisters, a Nigerian series, passed on at age 54.
His death was announced by his daughter, Temi Bandele, via a statement posted on her Facebook page Monday evening.
“As Biyi’s Daughter, I am heartbroken to share the sudden and unexpected death on Sunday 7th of August in Lagos of my father, Biyi Bandele,” the statement disclosed.
She added, “Biyi was a prodigiously talented writer and filmmaker, as well as a loyal friend and beloved father. He was a storyteller to his bones, with an unblinking perspective, singular voice and wisdom which spoke boldly through all of his art, in poetry, novels, plays and on screen. He told stories which made a profound impact and inspired many all over the world. His legacy will live on through his work.”
Temi added, “He was taken from us much too soon. He had already said so much so beautifully and had so much more to say. We wish everyone to please respect the privacy of his family and friends as we grieve his loss.”
Meanwhile, EbonyLife Group’s CEO and executive producer of ‘Blood Sisters’, Mo Abudu, commiserated with the deceased’ family.
“Biyi worked with us at EbonyLife Media, directing several of our projects, including ‘Fifty’ (2015), ‘Blood Sisters’, episodes 1 & 2 (2022) and the forthcoming film Elesin Oba, The King’s Horseman, for which he wrote the screenplay,” said Mo Abudu. “Elesin Oba will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September. Biyi had an eye for a story, was always passionate about his work, and had a great love for Yoruba culture.”
