Seven Doors is a Nigerian drama television limited series created by Femi Adebayo for the streaming platform Netflix. Set in Ilara, Ondo State, the series explores 18th- and 19th-century Nigeria and serves as the directorial debut of actor and producer Femi Adebayo. It is produced by Euphoria 360 in collaboration with Netflix and is co-directed by Femi Adebayo, Tope Adebayo, and Adebayo Tijani.
The series follows the story of Adedunjoye (portrayed by Femi Adebayo) in Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, before and after his ascension to the throne as King Adedunjoye. The story delves into his lineage, his challenging reign as king, and his complex marital life with Amaka (portrayed by Chioma Chukwuka) and six additional wives.
The cast features Femi Adebayo, Chioma Akpotha, Oga Bello, Jide Kosoko, Gabriel Afolayan, Hafiz Oyetoro, Ronke Odusanya, Muyiwa Ademola and other cast members. Femi Adebayo has referred to the series as a celebration of Nigeria's history and culture.
Seven Doors premiered on 11 December 2024, at Filmhouse Cinema IMAX in Lekki, Lagos. The event featured Nollywood actors dressed in traditional attire reflecting the series' historical setting. The series was released theatrically on 13 December 2024, alongside all six episodes on Netflix. According to Netflix, the series became the most-watched original production in Nigeria upon its release. Critics generally praised the show, particularly highlighting its visual aesthetics and production design.
Seven Doors tells the story of Adedunjoye, a simple man who loves his wife and children. He was asked to become the King of Ilara Kingdom as the Kingship has gotten to his family lineage. Uninterested in the offer, he vehemently refused. After several persuasions, he obliged and became the King. His ascension to the Kingship was followed by a lot of opposition who sought to make his tenure miserable. Soon after he becomes King, Ilara kingdom begins to experience turmoil and trouble, and after intervention from the chief priest, he was told to open seven doors, representing seven wives to appease for the wrongs of his forefathers. The King refuses and Ilara kingdom and the King's house continue to be plagued with lot of misfortune including the death of the King's daughter.
The film was released to Netflix on 13 December 2024, a day after its premiere, the premiere celebrates culture as the film implies. Netflix top leaders also expressed excitement at the project and how much it portrays the Nigerian culture, Netflix further reiterated her commitment to showcasing African stories and culture at large.
Critics offered generally positive assessments. Pulse Nigeria described the series as offering a "fresh take on love, tradition and royalty," praising its thematic depth and world-building. Likewise, Guardian Life highlighted its exploration of love, loss, tradition and unity, noting its compelling narrative and production design.
At the 11th Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards, the film won three major awards: Best Lead Actor for Femi Adebayo, Best Lead Actress for Chioma Chukwuka, and Best Music/Score for Tolu Obanro.
At the 17th Best of Nollywood Awards, the series won multiple honours including Best Series, Best Production Design, Best Special Effect, Best Cinematography and Best Costume.