Lupita Nyong’o, the Oscar-winning actress known for her powerful performances, recently revealed a heartwarming story about her personal touch on the 2019 horror-comedy film “Little Monsters.” During an appearance on the popular show “Hot Ones,” hosted by Sean Evans, Nyong’o shared how she convinced pop superstar Taylor Swift to allow the use of her hit song “Shake It Off” in a pivotal scene.
Initially, the producers of “Little Monsters” were unable to secure the rights to the song. However, Nyong’o, a self-proclaimed “Swiftie” (a devoted Taylor Swift fan), wasn’t ready to give up. She knew the song’s message of resilience and positivity perfectly aligned with the film’s themes and her character’s journey.
“The producers told me they can’t get the rights,” Nyong’o revealed on “Hot Ones.” “And I decided, okay, I’m going to make a pitch.” This decision set the stage for a winning moment for both the actress and the film.
Nyong’o went on to explain how she personally reached out to Taylor Swift, connecting with her on a deeper level. She shared how “Shake It Off” had been a source of strength for her during a challenging time in her own life, specifically referencing a period when she was working on the film “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” in London.
“My best friend came to London, and Taylor had just released Shake It Off,” Nyong’o said, “and we were just dancing around the apartment. It lifted my spirits.”
This personal connection resonated with Taylor Swift. Nyong’o’s heartfelt pitch, combined with the song’s thematic relevance to the film, ultimately convinced the singer to grant permission for the use of “Shake It Off.” The song appears in a pivotal scene of “Little Monsters,” where Nyong’o’s character, Miss Audre, a dedicated school teacher, uses it to lift the spirits of her students amidst a zombie apocalypse.
Lupita Nyong’o’s story highlights the power of personal connection and the impact music can have on our lives. Her dedication to the film and her genuine love for Taylor Swift’s music resulted in a perfect marriage of art and emotion, ultimately enriching the experience for both viewers and the actress herself.
