Naomi Ackie's Explosive Rise: 5 Blockbuster Roles That Cement Her As Hollywood's Next Icon

Naomi Ackie has officially transitioned from a breakout star to a certified Hollywood powerhouse, with an unprecedented slate of high-profile projects dominating the entertainment calendar for 2025 and beyond. As of December 2025, the British actress is not only fresh off a celebrated performance in a major directorial debut but is also poised to anchor two of the most anticipated films in the coming years: a sci-fi epic and a DC horror film. This comprehensive look dives into her career, the iconic role that earned her critical acclaim, and the blockbuster films that confirm her status as one of the industry's most versatile and sought-after talents. Ackie's career is a masterclass in strategic role selection, moving seamlessly between television, independent cinema, major franchises, and biopics. Her ability to embody vastly different characters—from a determined resistance fighter in a galaxy far, far away to a beloved musical icon—demonstrates a profound depth that critics and filmmakers are now scrambling to capture.

Naomi Ackie: A Detailed Biography and Filmography Profile

Naomi Sarah Ackie is a British actress who has quickly risen to prominence through a combination of raw talent and captivating screen presence. Her journey from the London stage to global cinema has been marked by a series of critically acclaimed performances, establishing her as a formidable force in the industry.

• Full Name: Naomi Sarah Ackie
• Date of Birth: August 22, 1991 (Some sources cite 1992)
• Place of Birth: Walthamstow, London, England, UK
• Education: Trained at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama (RCSSD).
• Breakthrough TV Role: Bonnie in the second series of the dark comedy *The End of the F***ing World* (2019), for which she won a BAFTA Award for Best Supporting Actress.
• Major Film Franchise Role: Jannah in *Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker* (2019), a former First Order stormtrooper who joins the Resistance.
• Iconic Biopic Role: Whitney Houston in *I Wanna Dance with Somebody* (2022).
• Notable Early Work: Anna in *Lady Macbeth* (2016) and her television debut in a 2015 episode of *Doctor Who* ("Face the Raven").

Ackie’s foundation in collaborative and devised theatre from her time at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama has given her a unique approach to character development, allowing her to tackle complex, emotionally demanding roles with authenticity and precision.

The Transformation: How Playing Whitney Houston Changed Everything

While her BAFTA win for *The End of the F***ing World* brought her significant industry attention, it was her portrayal of the legendary singer Whitney Houston in the 2022 biopic *I Wanna Dance with Somebody* that truly catapulted Naomi Ackie onto the global stage. This performance was a career-defining moment, showcasing her immense range and dedication to her craft.

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The role of Whitney Houston was a monumental task, requiring Ackie to capture the singer’s vocal mannerisms, stage presence, and tumultuous personal life. Ackie’s performance was widely praised for its emotional depth and nuanced depiction of the icon’s journey, earning her a nomination for the BAFTA Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role.

The film, which she also executive produced, solidified her reputation as an actress capable of handling the pressure of portraying a beloved, real-life figure. Critics noted her ability to convey Houston's inner struggle and vulnerability, moving beyond mere imitation to deliver a heartfelt tribute.

Naomi Ackie's Blockbuster Future: Upcoming Roles in 2025 and 2026

The sheer quality and variety of Naomi Ackie’s upcoming projects are a testament to her current standing in the industry. Her future filmography is packed with collaborations with some of the world's most innovative and respected directors, ensuring she will remain a central figure in cinema over the next few years. This slate of projects is a goldmine for topical authority, connecting her to major franchises and critically acclaimed auteurs.

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1. Bong Joon-ho’s Sci-Fi Epic: *Mickey 17* (2025)

One of Ackie's most eagerly awaited roles is in *Mickey 17*, the next film from Oscar-winning director Bong Joon-ho (*Parasite*). The film is a science-fiction thriller based on the novel *Mickey7* by Edward Ashton and stars Robert Pattinson. Ackie is part of a stellar ensemble cast that also includes Toni Collette, Mark Ruffalo, and Steven Yeun.

While details about her specific character are scarce, working with a director of Bong Joon-ho’s calibre signals Ackie’s commitment to artistically ambitious projects. The film is expected to be a major cinematic event in 2025, further elevating her profile in the global film landscape.

2. Joining the DC Universe: *Clayface* (TBA 2026)

Naomi Ackie is reportedly the top choice for the female lead in DC Studios’ upcoming horror film *Clayface*, penned by horror maestro Mike Flanagan (*The Haunting of Hill House*). While her exact role remains undisclosed and mysterious, the film is a significant entry into the new DC Universe, marking her second major franchise role after *Star Wars*.

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Her potential involvement in *Clayface* alongside Tom Rhys Harries suggests that DC is keen to build its new cinematic universe around formidable acting talent. This move into the superhero/horror genre showcases her versatility and ability to lead a major studio tentpole.

3. The Star-Studded Crime Comedy: *The Thursday Murder Club* (2025)

Ackie is also set to star in *The Thursday Murder Club*, an adaptation of Richard Osman’s wildly popular novel. The British crime comedy film is being directed by Chris Columbus (*Home Alone*, *Harry Potter*). The ensemble cast is packed with British acting legends, including Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, and Ben Kingsley.

This project demonstrates Ackie’s ability to move effortlessly between high-stakes drama and lighter, character-driven comedy, placing her in the company of established icons and broadening her appeal to a mainstream audience.

4. The Directorial Debut: *Blink Twice* (2024)

In 2024, Ackie starred as Frida in *Blink Twice*, the directorial debut of actress Zoë Kravitz. The film, a thriller, was a significant project that saw Ackie take on a leading role in a highly anticipated film. Her collaboration with Kravitz, which she has discussed in recent magazine features (such as her October 2024 cover of Porter Magazine), highlights her strong relationships with a new generation of filmmakers.

5. A Star Wars Return: Rey's *New Jedi Order* Movie (TBA)

Adding to her blockbuster credentials, reports indicate that Naomi Ackie is ready to return to the *Star Wars* universe as Jannah in the upcoming film centered on Rey's *New Jedi Order*. This continuation of her role from *The Rise of Skywalker* provides a valuable connection to one of the world's most enduring franchises, ensuring her long-term relevance in the science fiction and fantasy genres.

With a BAFTA nomination, a major biopic success, and a line-up of films featuring directors Bong Joon-ho and Chris Columbus, as well as roles in the DC and Star Wars universes, Naomi Ackie is not just a rising star—she is a fully realized talent whose presence guarantees a project’s significance. Her future is undeniably bright, securing her position as one of the most important actresses of her generation.