Fans of Kenyan Hollywood actress Lupita Nyong’o are rallying behind her following her revelation of a breakup with US-based TV host Selema Masekela.
Nyong’o took to Instagram to share “a personal truth” about finding herself in a season of heartbreak due to a love that was suddenly extinguished by deception. She did not mention anyone by name.
Masekela has remained silent and disabled comments on his Instagram.
Lupita Nyong’o, an A-list Hollywood actress, made history in 2014 as the first Kenyan to win an Oscar and the second African to do so, following South African actress Charlize Theron. She went public with her relationship with Masekela in December of the previous year.
Fans had been heartened by their relationship, which began after Masekela had asked his fans for advice on how to strike up a conversation with Lupita Nyong’o. His post on ‘X’ in 2016 inquired hypothetically about what one’s opening line would be when seated behind the actress on an airplane.
In her breakup announcement, Nyong’o stated her desire to “publicly dissociate myself from someone I can no longer trust” and revealed that her love had been “extinguished by deception.”
The news of the split surprised fans, many of whom saw their relationship announcement as heartwarming.
Nyong’o’s fans and celebrity friends have posted thousands of comments in support, praising her bravery for openly sharing a private and sensitive issue with the world.
Oscar-winning filmmaker Ava DuVernay commented, “We lift you up with love and sisterhood. Your miracles are all around you. Let us count them in confidence and faith.”
There have been very few comments expressing support for Masekela.
