About the Netflix Adaptation of The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives

In June 2020, Netflix and Mo Abudu’s EbonyLife Media announced plans to adapt 2 classic novels into series or films. As of early 2025, only one of them, Death and the King’s Horseman, has been completed. There have been no official updates or release dates for the adaptation of The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives.

Following its exit, Netflix did not say if it the withdrawing from the deals of the project. However, the deal for the adaptation of The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives could change significantly and here’s what to expect.

Although no cancellation was announced, without Netflix’s backing, funding and distribution support could be delayed.

The other possible scenario is that independent or Nollywood filmmakers might take up the adaptation, possibly turning the story into a smaller-scale film or TV series.

There is also the possibility of co-productions or new partnerships. African broadcasters, local platforms like IrokoTV or Showmax, or creative investors could step in.

Elesin Oba: The King’s Horseman

Regardless of what happens with The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives, it important to mention that the feature film adaptation of Death and the King’s Horseman was successful.

The film, titled Elesin Oba: The King’s Horseman, is a 2022 Yoruba-language historical drama adapted from Wole Soyinka’s acclaimed play Death and the King’s Horseman, directed by Biyi Bandele and co-produced by Netflix and EbonyLife TV.

It made history by becoming the first Yoruba-language film to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 2022.

After its TIFF debut, the film enjoyed a limited theatrical release in Nigeria from 28 October to 4 November 2022, followed by a Netflix release on 4 November 2022.

In this case, Netflix did not withdraw—it successfully distributed the film both internationally and in Nigeria. But imagining a scenario where Netflix pulls all plugs.