Famous Kenyan Actors

Deep Roy is a versatile Kenyan and British actor, puppeteer, and stuntman known for his work in various films and television series. With a height of 132 centimeters (4 ft 4 in), he is frequently chosen for roles as diminutive characters. His notable performances include Teeny Weeny in The NeverEnding Story, all the Oompa-Loompas in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Keenser in Star Trek and its sequels. He has also appeared in popular TV shows like The X-Files, Doctor Who, and Eastbound & Down, showcasing his diverse talents in the entertainment industry.

Edi Mūe Gathegi is a talented Kenyan-American actor known for his roles in various television series and films. He has portrayed memorable characters such as Dr. Jeffrey Cole in House, Cheese in Gone Baby Gone, Laurent in the Twilight series, Darwin in X-Men: First Class, and Baron Jacobee in Into the Badlands. Gathegi has also showcased his acting prowess in The Blacklist and The Blacklist: Redemption, as well as in the television drama series Startup. His recent work includes the role of Dev Ayesa in For All Mankind and the upcoming portrayal of Mister Terrific in the film Superman (2025).

Charles Bukeko was a renowned Kenyan actor and comedian known for his iconic portrayal of the titular character in the TV series Papa Shirandula, which he also created. He won the 2010 Kalasha Award for Best Actor in a TV Series for his role. Additionally, Bukeko showcased his talent in the 2012 film The Captain of Nakara. His comedy programmes were widely broadcast on Kenyan Citizen Television, captivating audiences of all ages. Bukeko's comedic genius and acting prowess solidified his status as a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Nicholas Munene Mutuma is a versatile Kenyan professional with extensive experience in the entertainment industry. He is known for his work as an actor, producer, television/radio host, and corporate emcee since 2008. Mutuma gained recognition for his roles in various TV shows, including "Tabasamu" and "Shuga," where he acted alongside Lupita Nyong'o. His involvement in the successful web series "This Is It" further solidified his reputation, garnering over one million views in just five months.

Kiran Shah MBE is a British actor and stunt double best known for his work in films. He began his career as a stand-in and stunt performer, eventually landing acting roles. With over 30 acting credits and 37 credits as a stuntman or body double, Shah has established himself as a versatile and skilled performer in the film industry. He holds the title of the world's shortest stuntman according to Guinness World Records. Shah's contributions to cinema span a wide range of genres and productions.

Charles Gitonga Maina is a former Kenyan actor and basketball player who gained recognition for his co-starring role in the 1994 film The Air Up There. Throughout his career, he showcased his talents both on the screen and on the basketball court, leaving a lasting impact on audiences with his performances. Maina's work in the entertainment industry and his athletic abilities have solidified his reputation as a versatile and accomplished professional in both fields.

Joseph Olita was a Kenyan actor renowned for his portrayal of Idi Amin in the films "Rise and Fall of Idi Amin" (1981) and "Mississippi Masala" (1991). His compelling performances earned him recognition and established him as a talented actor in the industry. Olita's portrayal of Amin showcased his versatility and acting prowess, leaving a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. Through his work, he contributed significantly to the film industry and cemented his legacy as a skilled and dedicated actor.

Owiso Odera was a talented Sudanese-born Kenyan actor known for his role as Papa Tunde in the television series The Originals. He garnered critical acclaim for his performance in Katori Hall's play Our Lady of Kibeho at the Signature Theatre, earning a nomination for a Lucille Lortel Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Play in 2015. Odera's professional career was marked by his versatility and skill in portraying complex characters, leaving a lasting impact on both stage and screen audiences.

Daniel Ndambuki, a Kenyan comedian, gained prominence through his engaging Instagram content, blending lifestyle and comedy. Alongside his online success, he has showcased his talent as a radio host. With his first Instagram post dating back to July 2012, he has amassed a substantial following of over 2.9 million fans. In his leisure time, he enjoys strumming the guitar. Hailing from Kenya, Ndambuki has established himself as a popular comedian, drawing comparisons to acclaimed figures like Aziz Ansari.

Felix Odiwour, popularly known as Jalang'o or Jalas, is a multifaceted professional in Kenya. He transitioned from being a successful radio presenter, comedian, actor, and events MC to a prominent politician. Currently serving as a member of parliament for Langata Constituency, he won on an ODM Party ticket, defeating his predecessor. Jalas is also recognized for his philanthropic endeavors and talk show hosting. With a diverse career spanning entertainment and politics, he continues to make a significant impact in his community and beyond.

Size 8, also known as Linet Munyali, is a Kenyan singer, songwriter, and actress. She began her career as a secular artist, gaining popularity with singles like "Shamba Boy" and "Moto". In 2013, she transitioned to gospel music with the release of her single "Mateke". Apart from her music career, Size 8 has also ventured into acting, appearing in the legal comedy Mashtaka. With a diverse talent in music and acting, Size 8 has made a name for herself in the Kenyan entertainment industry.