Sunshine Rosman reveals how Lagos life experiences inspired her portrayal of Amanda Sparkles in To Kill a Monkey, blending observation, family influence, and grace

Sunshine Rosman To Kill a Monkey star has shared how her upbringing and real-life observations inspired her portrayal of Amanda Sparkles in the hit series.

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Rosman, a Canadian-Nigerian actress, revealed that growing up in Surulere, Magodo, and Ijesha, Lagos, nurtured her creativity. “My parents always encouraged me.

My sisters and I would put together little plays and record songs for our dad… He would clap and cheer for us. We were all entertainers in the family,” she recalled.

She cited Marilyn Monroe as a key influence, drawn to the late star’s captivating expressions and ability to light up a room.

Her big break came unexpectedly. Initially rejected during auditions for To Kill a Monkey, she was later called up while preparing for school exams.

“It was a tough choice defer the semester or take the role… By God’s grace, everything aligned,” she said.

On portraying Amanda Sparkles, Rosman studied the mannerisms of high-class Lagos sex workers to bring authenticity to the role. “Sparkles was a blend of my experiences and those of Lagos ‘runs girls.’

Sometimes, I just sit in clubs and observe people. That became the anchor for Sparkles. Above all, God’s grace helped me,” she explained.

Rosman emphasized the series’ moral depth, noting that “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.”

Addressing misconceptions, she clarified her French-speaking ability, stating that she only took beginner classes at Alliance Française in Ikoyi. “At best, I understand a few words if spoken slowly,” she admitted.

Discussing her bicultural background, she acknowledged both advantages and casting challenges, noting that her looks don’t always fit the typical Nigerian image.

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Rosman also praised co-star Bucci Franklin for his talent and kind heart and highlighted her family’s commitment to charity, supporting her mother’s orphanage in Abia State a project inspired by her late father.