British-Canadian-Nigerian actor Ayo Solanke, best known for his role as Ryan Adebayo in the BET series streaming on Netflix, has opened up about his journey into acting and the personal experiences that shaped his on-screen performance.
Appearing on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Wednesday, Solanke recounted his multicultural upbringing and gradual rise in the entertainment industry.
Born in Nigeria, Solanke moved to England at the age of two, where his parents sought better opportunities for their children. He spent a decade there, participating in community theatre with his brother — initially as a hobby with no plans for a career in acting.
Everything changed in 2015 when Solanke relocated to Winnipeg, Canada. Immersed in a growing film scene, he found renewed passion and began landing professional roles.
Speaking on his breakout role in the BET series, which debuted on Netflix in May 2025 and quickly rose to international charts, Solanke shared how deeply he resonated with his character, Ryan Adebayo.
“I could relate to Ryan’s sense of being unseen and out of place,” he said, describing the emotional connection between his life and the character’s arc. “That was very interesting exploring.”
When asked about his potential involvement in Nollywood, Solanke said he hopes to feature in a Nigerian film soon, describing it as a chance to reconnect with his roots through storytelling.
He also touched on his experience working in horror, from his debut in Tales from the Hood 3 (2020) to roles in Sniper: Rogue Mission and Clown in a Cornfield. He noted the surprising emotional toll such productions can take.
“It’s not for the weak,” he said, reflecting on the intense and sometimes unsettling behind-the-scenes environment.
Now gaining global recognition, Solanke is becoming a rising voice in the entertainment world, blending cultural identity with compelling performances that resonate deeply with audiences.
