There was a time long ago when women ruled with unparalleled power. They bowed to no man, their actions echoing throughout history. One woman who did this was worshipped even 400 years after her reign; there was no one more iconic than Cleopatra.

So, when South London’s Adele James, 27, was called upon to portray Queen Cleopatra in a Netflix series produced by Jada Pinkett Smith, she was thrilled.

Speaking exclusively with Black Ballad, Adele James revealed how she was enthralled with the fact that she was chosen to play someone who did anything she could to survive and make a success out of her role as a queen.

“It was so surreal. Although it was last minute – I didn’t get the role till a couple of days till I had to fly out. It is a huge honour and a privilege but also a massive responsibility.”