Adepero Oduye Quotes, born in Brooklyn, New York, to Nigerian parents, is an American actress, director, singer, and writer known for her powerful performances in films like Pariah (2011), 12 Years a Slave (2013), The Big Short (2015), and Widows (2018). A Cornell University pre-med graduate, she pursued acting after her father’s passing, earning acclaim for her breakout role in Pariah, which garnered an Independent Spirit Award nomination. She made her Broadway debut in The Trip to Bountiful alongside Cicely Tyson.
These 15 quotes—sourced from interviews and public statements—reflect her thoughts on acting, identity, resilience, and social issues, capturing her authentic and reflective spirit.
15 Adepero Oduye Quotes
- “The reason why I found acting is because my father passed away. He passed away really young. I was going to go to med school. My father’s dream was that all of his kids become doctors. I realized in school I didn’t like it. When he died, it was like a wake-up call. Life is too short to do something you don’t want to do.” (quotessayings.net, n.d.)
- “I want to tell authentic, real stories with real characters.” (minimalistquotes.com, 2022)
- “My first audition was an open call and I had no picture and no resume—that’s how clueless I was. I just thought I could show up.” (inspiringquotes.us, n.d.)
- “I have a Twitter handle, but I never sign on.” (minimalistquotes.com, 2022)
- “I just find it hard to believe that anyone would stop me to share how much they loved something that I was a part of.” (minimalistquotes.com, 2022)
- “There are conservative people in all colours in America.” (minimalistquotes.com, 2022)
- “So you do things to make them proud and accept you.” (minimalistquotes.com, 2022)
- “I’m in awe of how grounded Ms. Tyson is and how her performances can be different but the same.” (minimalistquotes.com, 2022)
- “Her words are effortless in terms of their meaning and how she inhabits them.” (minimalistquotes.com, 2022)
- “At the end of the day, if I can say that I had a career where I was able to play all different kinds of characters and I’m known as someone who is well-respected for my approach to the craft, that would be a beautiful life.” (minimalistquotes.com, 2022)
- “I love that you can watch a film and 10 years later still be affected.” (minimalistquotes.com, 2022)
- “Everybody has been amazing, and the energy is really beautiful. I’m replacing my friend Condola.” (minimalistquotes.com, 2022)
- “The book was really helpful in unpacking the ethics of it all, and the ethics committee and what it historically does, particularly in this hospital.” (Interview, SciFi Vision, 2022)
- “It is one thing to be the head of ethics, to talk about things ethically, which you’re basically talking about in theory, in preparation, but when real life happens and happens fast, and in quick succession?” (Interview, SciFi Vision, 2022)
- “When somebody recognizes me from the film—and it can be a wide range of people, which shows the power of film.” (minimalistquotes.com, 2022)
Adepero Oduye’s quotes are a heartfelt blend of authenticity, resilience, and dedication to her craft, inspiring you to pursue your passion and tell meaningful stories. Which quote resonates with your journey? Share it below and keep Adepero’s vibrant legacy alive!
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
Email – business@mylittledesire.com
