Ayo Edebiri Becomes Chanel’s First Nigerian Brand Ambassador

Born in Boston to Nigerian and Barbadian parents, Ayo Edebiri has, over the years, gained recognition as one of Hollywood’s most brilliant actresses and writers. Her standout performance in The Bear earned her an Emmy, a Golden Globe, and a Critics’ Choice Award. She has also starred in fan-favourite productions such as Bottoms, Theater Camp, Abbott Elementary, Inside Out 2, and Big Mouth.

Now, the actress is expanding her influence beyond film, as Chanel officially names her its first Nigerian brand ambassador.

From Hollywood to the Steps of the Met Gala

Ayo Edebiri owned one of fashion’s grandest stages with the same ease and enigma that define her on screen. At the 2025 Met Gala, she stunned in a tailored Ferragamo gown embroidered with red glass beads and a sleek black leather tailcoat, a look inspired by her father’s wedding outfit. The year before, she glided up the Met steps in a sculpted Loewe gown for the “Garden of Time” theme, a moment that cemented her as a fashion industry favourite. 

A Vogue Cover and a Milestone Birthday

In October 2025, as Ayo Edebiri turned 30, Vogue unveiled her as the face of its November issue, making her the first Nigerian to ever front the magazine. Inside the feature, she wandered through a Venetian hotel answering thirty personal questions for Vogue’s “Answer Me This” series, reflecting on childhood memories, career pivots, and what it means to grow into herself.

 Her Vogue appearance wasn’t just another editorial shoot; it marked her transformation from award-winning actress to fashion muse. 

Adebiri Joins the Exclusive Chanel as The First Nigerian Brand Ambassador

Shortly after her Vogue cover, Chanel announced Ayo Edebiri as its newest brand ambassador and, notably, the first of Nigerian heritage to represent the house. 

“Ayo Edebiri embodies a new generation of genre-defying performers who are constantly pushing boundaries,” the brand shared. “Her distinctive style, wit, and singular perspective on the world make her a natural ally of Chanel. 

The move comes just ahead of Matthieu Blazy’s first runway show for the house, signally a fresh chapter in Chanel’s narrative. Edebiri had hinted at the partnership by wearing Chanel at the recent film premiere of “After the Hunt,” which she stars in Venice and New York.

 

Speaking on the announcement, Edebiri said she and Matthieu Blazy connected immediately.

“I love his vision, both sensitive and joyful. There is ease and elegance, yet a beautiful internal power. His looks give me confidence, but I still feel like myself. I am so happy to be embarking on this adventure with Matthieu and Chanel.”

Matthieu Blazy also shared his admiration for her, saying:

“Ayo is all strength, but at the same time, she is vulnerable enough always to put herself out there. She writes, she acts, she directs… Nothing can stop her. I admire her boldness, her beauty, her intellect, and her choice of artistic projects. She does it all while being incredibly kind and witty, with the warmest smile.”

To mark the partnership, Edebiri will attend Chanel’s Spring/Summer 2026 show at the Grand Palais in Paris, where Matthieu Blazy will unveil his first collection for the house.