The Oscar nominee claims her character and Michael had similar qualities

Jan 17, 2014 14:32 GMT  ·  By
Lupita Nyong'o reveals Michael Jackson as the inspiration for her character in "12 Years a Slave"
   Lupita Nyong'o reveals Michael Jackson as the inspiration for her character in "12 Years a Slave"

The Kenyan actress Lupita Nyong'o has just received her first Oscar nomination for her role in the film “12 Years a Slave.” Now, she's opening up about the creative process involved in creating her on-screen persona.

In a recent interview with Dazed & Confused magazine, the actress reveals that she based her character on one of her biggest idols, Michael Jackson. According to her, the two share the same child-like personality.

“There's something very Michael Jackson-like about Patsey – the child-like quality he always had. She had her childhood stripped away from her suddenly as soon as she became of sexual age,” the actress explains her reasoning.

The 30-year-old actress convinced members of the Academy she was a good enough candidate for an Oscar nomination in the category of Best Supporting Actress. In giving Lupita the nomination, the Academy snubbed other memorable performances, such as Oprah portrayal in “Lee Daniels' The Butler.”

“12 Years a Slave” already won big at this year's Golden Globes and now it's set for the Oscars which are going to take place on March 2.