Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o has officially become Chanel’s newest brand ambassador. The prestigious French fashion house announced the partnership following Nyong’o’s attendance at its spring 2025 ready-to-wear show, held at the iconic Grand Palais during Paris Fashion Week.
Nyong’o, who has had a long-standing relationship with Chanel, expressed her excitement about this new role. “It’s a great honor,” the actress shared with the Associated Press. “Chanel is a legacy brand with a long history. To be the newest face of it feels monumental. I feel very, very proud and excited to take this new journey.”
A Legacy of Diversity and Representation
The announcement of Nyong’o as Chanel’s ambassador is not only a testament to her talent and style but also highlights her commitment to representation and diversity. Nyong’o spoke about how she was inspired by a documentary on model and activist Bethann Hardison, who fought for diversity in the fashion world during the 1960s and 1970s.
“I would hope that there is a message for little girls,” Nyong’o said, reflecting on her role. “My work as an actor, author, podcast maker, and now as a brand ambassador, is to change that by just occupying the space.”
Nyong’o’s presence in spaces where representation has historically been limited is, for her, a form of activism. “When someone finally occupies a space that was once empty, it changes the way people see themselves and the world around them,” she added.
The Celebrated Career of Lupita Nyong’o
Nyong’o is best known for her Academy Award-winning role in 12 Years a Slave, as well as her work in Black Panther, Star Wars, and more. Most recently, she voiced the lead character in The Wild Robot, a DreamWorks Animation film.
Beyond acting, Nyong’o is also an acclaimed author. Her children’s book Sulwe was a New York Times Best Seller. She continues to make strides, not just in entertainment, but now in fashion as Chanel’s ambassador.