John Boyega is deservedly one of the most sought-after actors in Hollywood and boy, has he been on a splendid roll!
Despite all the fame and fortune, the British actor, who was born to Nigerian parents, remains grounded. If you follow him keenly, you’ll most definitely know he’s a family man and is very appreciative of the support he has received from them, particularly his parents, Samson and Abigail Boyega.
During the European launch of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker in London in December, Boyega, who plays Finn in the sci-fi/fantasy movie, attended the event with his family. A very close-knit group, the Boyegas’ were conspicuously clad in matching traditional Nigerian outfits and absolutely stole the red carpet.
Taking to his Instagram page on Monday, Boyega shared an emotional and teary throwback video of the moment he surprised his parents with a house under the guise they were attending an interview.
“I just bought my mom and dad a house. I’ve always wanted to do that,” he says at the beginning of the video.
When his parents arrive for the supposed ‘interview’, he jokes around with them for a bit and then drops the bombshell.
“I’d like to say thank you for everything that you’ve done. I’ve decided to do a secret project for a few months and I’m here to tell you there’s no interview. That was a lie. This is your house that I’m presenting to you. This is your new house, it belongs to you,” he reveals to them.
His parents, who are absolutely surprised, remain silent as they all clap. Just to be sure it’s not a prank, his dad asks if he is serious.
“There’s no lie, this is your house,” he assures them. “We’ve been planning this for four to five months. It’s a small token, but I just thought it’s best that you live in an environment and place where you’re happy and you have space and privacy. Congratulations.”
He continues: “It’s your prayers that has got this because the skill and ability that I’ve received has been from your prayers and I cannot ignore what God has used my parents to do in my life. And this is just my physical appreciation. Honestly from the bottom of my heart, thank you so so much for everything you’ve done.”
His parents, who are still shocked, break down in tears.
As the video ends with footage of Boyega with his family at the European launch of Star Wars, he explains why it means so much for him to be there for his parents.
“As your parents get older, they become your babies. They’re curious every day about who you are as a person. I can tell that my parents are very much aware of the limited time a human being has on this planet,” he says. “And they’re really trying as much as possible just to communicate. They’re always showing love. We’ve managed to build such a nice bond. It’s cool.”
Take a look at the emotional video below and grab a handkerchief:
