Lupita Nyong’o crowned the most beautiful person in the world by People magazine
The Oscar-winner tops the publication’s 2014 annual chart
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.It’s been a successful year indeed for Hollywood actress Lupita Nyong’o.
In March, she won an Oscar for her role in the critically acclaimed 12 Years A Slave, in which she played abused slave Patsey. Her harrowing performance also landed her BAFTA and Golden Globe nominations.
The fashion world welcomed her with open arms, and she currently stars as the face of both Miu Miu and Lancome. Designers clamoured to dress the 30-year-old during awards season earlier this year.
But her achievements keep growing - People magazine has named her the most beautiful person in the world in its annual list, beating stars including Amber Heard, Molly Sims and Jennifer Lawrence. Previous winners of the award include Leonardo DiCaprio, Gwyneth Paltrow and Beyonce.
The move is welcome news in a media that is often accused of downplaying the beauty of darker-skinned women.
Although she grew up believing that “light skin and flowing, straight hair” was more desirable, Nyong’o mother “always said I was beautiful. And I finally believed her at some point.”
“It was exciting and just a major, major compliment,” Nyong’o told People of her latest award. “I was happy for all the girls who would see me on [the cover] and feel a little more seen.”
The Oscars red carpet - in pictures
When she was younger Nyong’o struggled with her appearance, but was inspired by the rising stardom of black model Alek Wek.
“I couldn’t believe that people were embracing a woman who looked so much like me as beautiful,” she said during a speech in February. “A flower couldn’t help but bloom inside of me.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments