Kayode Peters Biography
Kayode Tunde Peters was born on September 25, 1975, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. As a teenager in Lagos, he joined school drama clubs and community theatre groups. His parents encouraged his creativity, nurturing his talent with books and play scripts. After excelling at King’s College, Lagos, Kayode earned admission to the University of Lagos, where he studied English Language. Kayode Peters was 49 years old as of 2025.
Kayode Peters Career
Shortly after graduating in 2000, Kayode Peters launched his professional journey by producing The Twilight Zone, a bold television experiment that fused drama with comedic sketches. Its success on local cable channels opened doors at DBN TV, where he created Crossworld Blues, the network’s first home-grown comedy series. Audiences across Lagos tuned in, charmed by his witty dialogue and relatable characters.
By the mid-2000s, he joined the team behind the iconic sitcom Papa Ajasco and Company, directing episodes that sharpened its clever humour and broadened its reach. His reputation as a comedy director grew, and in 2010 he produced Flatmates for Africa Magic. Starring Basketmouth and Okey Bakassi, the show became a fan favourite, capturing the chaos and camaraderie of young Nigerians sharing a Lagos apartment. Critics praised Kayode’s talent for balancing slapstick gags with heartfelt moments—an approach that defined a new era of Nigerian situational comedy.
In 2015, he expanded into stage plays with Doll House, a sharp satire on gender roles and modern relationships, which toured theatres in Abuja and Lagos to sold-out audiences. Three years later, he ventured into feature films, directing Excuse My African in New York City, his first international title, which premiered to rave reviews for its cross-cultural humour and vibrant portrayal of diasporan life. In 2021, Kayode returned to familiar ground with the Netflix streaming of 13 Letters, a romantic comedy starring Kunle Remi and Bimbo Ademoye.
The film showcased his matured storytelling—blending witty banter, poignant reflections on love, and lively Lagos street scenes. That same year, he produced Crazy Grannies and Dream Job, both box-office hits that highlighted his knack for crafting ensemble comedies centered on unlikely heroes. Throughout his career, Kayode Peters mentored countless emerging actors and writers, giving first breaks to talent who have since become household names.
Kayode Peters Personal Life
Kayode Peters was married to Tayo Sobola, a renowned model, actress, and dancer. The couple married in 2006 and welcomed two children, whom they raised in a close-knit Lagos neighbourhood. Friends describe Kayode as a devoted family man: he loved Sunday afternoon barbecues, storytelling sessions with his children, and attending his wife’s dance rehearsals. He practiced Christianity and often spoke of his faith as the anchor for his creativity and resilience. Though he valued privacy—rarely sharing personal details in interviews—he was known for his warm hospitality.
His home was a gathering place for actors celebrating premieres, playwrights reading new scripts, and community leaders planning charity events. Kayode also volunteered with youth arts programmes, teaching drama workshops at public schools and organising drama festivals that showcased local talent. His generosity extended to mentoring young filmmakers, offering guidance on scriptwriting and production techniques. In his spare time, he collected vinyl records of Afrobeat legends, read classic Nigerian novels, and practised yoga to maintain balance amidst a hectic schedule.
Kayode Peters Death
On June 28, 2025, fans and colleagues were shocked by the announcement of Kayode Peters’ passing. His official Instagram page shared a family statement: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Kayode Peters Adewumi, who passed on peacefully this morning in Toronto, Canada. KP braved, challenged and conquered a long-time illness until his last breath.” Though the family asked for privacy and did not disclose the specific illness, they emphasised that he faced his health struggle with courage and grace. At the time, Kayode was in Canada preparing a co-production of a stage play when his condition worsened.
The Nigerian entertainment industry mourned deeply: actors who had grown under his mentorship, producers who had trusted his vision, and viewers who had laughed and cried along with his characters. Tributes poured in on social media, celebrating his warmth, humour, and generosity. In Lagos, candlelight vigils were held at studio lots and theatres where he had worked, and a memorial service in Toronto brought together friends from across the African diaspora. Plans for his funeral in Ibadan were quietly set by the family, with a request for donations to youth arts programmes in lieu of flowers—reflecting Kayode’s lifelong commitment to nurturing new talent.
Conclusion
Kayode Peters’ legacy lives on in every script he wrote, every show he directed, and every life he touched. He shaped modern Nigerian comedy—teaching us that laughter can heal, unite, and reveal shared truths. As we remember his infectious smile and quick wit, we also honour his dedication to family, faith, and community. Though he has left us, his work continues to inspire a new generation of filmmakers and comedians who stand on his shoulders as they chart their own paths.
FAQs
What was Kayode Peters’ first major television project?
His breakthrough came with Crossworld Blues, the first comedy series on DBN TV, which made him a pioneer of Nigerian TV comedy.
How did Kayode balance comedy with meaningful messages?
He infused humour with authentic cultural references and relatable situations, ensuring that laughter accompanied insights on everyday Nigerian life.
Which Netflix film did he direct?
In 2021, Kayode directed 13 Letters, a romantic comedy that explored modern relationships against the vibrant backdrop of Lagos.
How did he support young talent?
Kayode ran drama workshops in schools, mentored emerging actors and writers, and organised youth arts festivals that showcased new voices in theatre and film.
West is both an engineer and a construction manager with a solid ten-year track record in directing building projects and managing their financial aspects. Throughout his career, he has honed his skills in coordinating multidisciplinary teams, streamlining budget processes, and structuring financing plans that ensure projects are delivered on time and within financial targets.
Leave a Reply