After nearly three decades dominating Kenyan television screens, veteran actor Eddie Mbugua continues to be one of the most compelling figures in the country’s entertainment scene.
The seasoned performer, whose memorable roles have included an unforgettable money laundering mastermind in “Igiza,” is currently taking on another complex character as James Amani in the Showmax youth drama “Reckless,” where he plays a manipulative schemer whose actions threaten to destroy the powerful Sonoko family.
Mbugua’s longevity in the industry stems from his unique approach to character development, treating each role as more than just lines on a script.
“One thing I always make sure to do is approach my character from a human perspective, not just through the script. People often think acting is about pretending to be someone else, but it is so much more than that. Your job is to take the script and translate it into something real and alive for the audience,” he said.
In discussing his current role in “Reckless,” Mbugua reveals the depth he brings to what might appear as a straightforward villain.
“James is depicted as a villain, but what’s the definition of a villain? You know, one person’s terrorist is another person’s freedom fighter. So yes, his antics define him as a villain, but if you look at his heart and understand where he’s coming from and what drives him, then there’s that imbalance of power,” he says. “ I think a lot of people, especially in the corporate sector, would empathise with him in the unfairness of this social class system that we have. James isn’t asking for the world. He just wants his fair share, his slice of the pie. Isn’t that what anyone would want?”
Having witnessed Kenya’s television industry transform over three decades, Mbugua is particularly proud of how local storytelling has evolved.
“Firstly, let me just say, I love my culture, I love my country. One of the things we have embraced is telling our own stories unapologetically. We are not imitating anyone or forcing ourselves into someone else’s narrative. We are representing Kenya and that’s something beautiful,” he said, crediting platforms and producers for supporting local narratives.
The veteran actor traces the industry’s remarkable journey from its foundational programs to today’s productions.
“Kenyan storytelling has come such a long way. We had Vioja Mahakamani, which was classic entertainment. Then came shows like ‘Tausi’, which I can barely remember except for that haunting theme song. And now? We are making modern, traditional and even futuristic stories. Remember ‘Subterranea’? That was a groundbreaking sci-fi set in Africa. It’s daring, it’s different, but we pulled it off. That is what I admire about us; we are venturing beyond the norm, stepping out of comfort zones and still staying true to who we are.”
When asked about potential collaborators, he highlighted Philip Bresson of Insignia Production.
“One of the filmmakers that I really admire is Philip Bresson of Insignia Production. He is one of those rare producers who has mastered the art of balancing the business side and the creative side of film. That’s something I wish more producers would grasp because, at the end of the day, film is a business.”
His advice to the next generation reflects his belief in the limitless potential of Kenyan creativity.
“To the next generation of filmmakers: don’t box yourselves in. Why not set a story in space? Who says Kenyans can’t be astronauts? Move beyond the clichés, show the world all sides of Kenya. Let’s tell our stories with boldness, because being true to ourselves is how we shine.”
As Kenya’s entertainment industry continues to grow and gain international recognition, veterans like Eddie Mbugua serve as both inspiration and foundation for emerging talent.
His three-decade career demonstrates the power of authentic storytelling and the importance of understanding character beyond surface-level portrayals, proving that experience and adaptability are key to longevity in the ever-evolving media landscape.
