Nollywood actress Sunshine Rosman has shared the behind-the-scenes journey of how she prepared for her standout role as Amanda “Sparkles” in Kemi Adetiba’s Netflix crime series To Kill a Monkey.
The 29-year-old actress revealed that her interpretation of Sparkles was inspired by her observations of Lagos nightlife and women popularly known as “runs girls.”
“Sparkles was a blend of my experiences and those of Lagos runs girls. Sometimes I sit in clubs and just observe people. That became the anchor for Sparkles. Above all, God’s grace helped me,” Rosman told Tribune.
Growing up in Surulere, Magodo and Ijesha, Sunshine recalled how her family shaped her passion for entertainment.
“My sisters and I would put together little plays and songs for my dad, even when he was tired from work. He would clap and cheer. We were all entertainers in the family,” she said.
The actress also cited Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe as a source of inspiration.
“I was captivated by her expressions beyond beauty. She had a way of lighting up a room and I wanted the same,” she explained.
Rosman disclosed that getting cast in the Netflix series wasn’t easy. She was initially turned down before being recalled at a pivotal moment.
“It was a tough choice – defer the semester or take the role. I had prophesied that I would one day work with Kemi Adetiba and by God’s grace everything aligned,” she noted.
Speaking on the themes of the series, she described the story as morally layered.
“No one was completely innocent. Everyone had flaws and strengths. From Amanda’s perspective, when a man brings you down, don’t stay there, flip the script,” she added.
To Kill a Monkey premiered on Netflix on July 18, 2025, and features an ensemble cast including William Benson, Bucci Franklin, Stella Damasus, Bimbo Akintola, Chidi Mokeme, Lilian Afegbai, Teniola Aladese, alongside Rosman.
Directed and produced by Kemi Adetiba, the series has been praised for its bold storytelling, authentic use of Benin Pidgin, immersive Lagos noir visuals, and stylish direction.
