Renowned American actor Omari Hardwick, best known for his iconic role as James “Ghost” St. Patrick in the hit TV series ‘Power’, engaged in an exclusive chat with media representatives and members of the ‘Chocolate Empire’ cast at Tatu City on Tuesday.
Hardwick, who arrived on Friday has participated in several events across the city including the opening of the HQ House at Tatu City on Saturday. On Tuesday, he engaged with aspiring Kenyan actors and members of the Creative Collective Initiative (CCI) to foster dialogues on the evolution and future of the film industry.
The event’s spotlight also shone on the ensemble cast of Showmax’s forthcoming drama series, “Chocolate Empire,” scheduled to premiere on Thursday, March 20.
Some of the stars of the show, Jimmy Gathu, Sanaipei Tande, and Derek Bbanga, were also in attendance.
To extend a Kenyan welcome, actor, orator, and creative Elsaphan Njora taught Hardwick how to do the “Anguka Nayo” dance, a song that gained popularity in 2024, during the June protests. The audience later joined in the dancing, which served as an icebreaker for the discussions.
Centered around the theme of “empowerment,” the gathering provided a platform for industry professionals to deliberate on the current state of Kenya’s film sector. Discussions encompassed strategies to enhance global collaborations and the imperative need for policy reforms to foster a more robust and equitable industry.
Navigating rejection and personal choices in acting
Addressing the challenges of rejection in the acting profession, Jimmy Gathu, who portrays JB Mauzo in “Chocolate Empire,” emphasised the significance of resilience and an unwavering commitment to one’s craft.
“What it takes is understanding the art, understanding the business…I’ve been in this business since 1990. It takes time, don’t get tired just keep going, taking it one moment at a time,” Mr Gathu said. “Take rejection as an opportunity to learn. Rejection doesn’t mean that you’re not good, it just means that you’re not ready. You have to keep working.”
Echoing this sentiment, Hardwick highlighted the importance of continuous self-improvement and embracing challenges as catalysts for growth.
“To be in this industry starts with rejection, ends with rejection. It’s how you handle rejection that’s important once you get a handle on that, you won’t allow anyone to tell you what rooms you don’t belong in,” Mr Hardwick said.
Emergence and importance of intimacy coordinators
The conversation later shifted when actress, producer, and one of Kenya’s pioneering intimacy coordinators, Nice Githinji, broached the subject of actors confronting ethically complex roles.
In his response, Mr Hardwick underscored the importance of personal choice, advising actors to ensure they can reconcile with their decisions post-performance. He candidly acknowledged his own privilege in being able to decline participating in certain scenes without jeopardising his career.
“I would always know I could say “No” as a man. It’s much harder for women, not as much now,” Mr Hardwick said.
He also illuminated the critical role of intimacy coordinators in contemporary film and television productions.
These professionals are tasked with choreographing scenes involving nudity and simulated sex, ensuring that actors’ boundaries are respected and that a safe, consensual environment is maintained on set.
This practice gained significant momentum in the post #MeToo era, with industry leaders like Ita O’Brien pioneering efforts in productions such as “Normal People” and “Vikings: Valhalla.”
In this discussion, the “Power” actor applauded the move: “Hats off to the industry for now incorporating a safeguard.”
He also praised Kenya for its vibrant culture and said that the country’s stories were worth telling.
“Kenya’s vibrant creative industry has so much to offer, and I’m thrilled to have had the chance to connect with so many talented individuals during my time here,” Hardwick said. “Storytelling in this region is deeply authentic and resonates universally. It’s a reminder that our stories, no matter where they are told, can impact and inspire globally.”
‘Chocolate Empire’ teaser
Attendees were then treated to an exclusive teaser of “Chocolate Empire,” building anticipation for its premiere on Thursday, March 20.
According to the show’s synopsis, The Chocolate Empire follows JB Mauzo, played by the multitalented Jimmy Gathu, a once-powerful businessman freshly released from prison. As JB works to rebuild his life and mend his fractured family, he secretly operates a high-end escort service from his exclusive cigar club.
Speaking to KBC Digital in a previous interview producer Grace Kahaki said the show was “bolder and darker.”
“This is darker and bolder than anything we have done before. We love a challenge and are absolutely dedicated to elevating our craft,” Ms Kahaki said. “Jimmy Gathu was always JB in my mind. Having worked with him on Single Kiasi, I knew he could bring JB’s charm, menace, and complexity to life. Somehow, you root for JB, even when he is wrong.”
