'Gifted and impactful': Kenyans mourn actor Charles Ouda
The actor will be remembered for his many roles in productions, the others including Know Zone, Count it Out, The First Grader, Higher Learning, Crime and Justice and Salem.
Actor Charles Ouda, known for his roles in shows including Makutano Junction, Changes, Mali and Second Family, died Saturday at the age of 38.
Mkamzee Mwatela, a writer and actress, issued a statement announcing Ouda's death on Sunday, saying it was on behalf of the family.
"He was a beloved son, brother and friend," she said. "We appeal to all to give his fiancée Ciru [Muriuki], and the Oudas space to grieve this unfathomable loss. More details will be given in due course."
The cause of his death was not immediately clear.
The actor will be remembered for his many roles in productions, the others including Know Zone, Count it Out, The First Grader, Higher Learning, Crime and Justice and Salem. He also co-hosted The Undiscovered Podcast, which he ran alongside his fiancee.
Condolence messages
Many of Ouda's family, friends, colleagues and fans took to social media with their messages of condolence, eulogising him as a gifted scriptwriter, show host, events manager and voice-over artist.
Journalist Wayua Muli wrote her message on X, formerly Twitter:
Charles Ouda’s death has been surprising and unusually painful even for those of us who didn’t know him personally. That’s how impactful of an actor he was.
— Wayua Muli 🇰🇪 (@MizMuli) February 4, 2024
Let us all now honour, love and respect him for the beauty he brought to our lives. ❤️
Actress Jackie Matubia posted videos of herself dancing Ouda while interacting with colleagues at a party.
"My heart is broken. Someone, please wake me up. Just yesterday you were so full of life, Charlie," she wrote. "I didn't think today I would be recapping yesterday like this. It's so painful; I just want to sleep and wake up and find you have sent me 20 reels and call me J."
Politician and activist Boniface Mwangi said, "Charles Ouda's death is a big blow to his family, Ciru and the acting fraternity. Ouda shone brightly on and off the stage. May he find rest, and eternal peace in the afterlife."
Public policy analyst Raphael Obonyo shared a message on X recognising the impact Ouda had on young actors and actresses.
I’m saddened to hear about the passing of Charles Ouda. Ouda was one of the most talented actors in Africa. He also opened doors for a generation of actors. Our thoughts are with the entire family and legion of fans. pic.twitter.com/ctq8eB6tZp
— Raphael Obonyo (@RaphaelObonyo) February 4, 2024
Another X user by the name Aleckie Ronald said Kenya has lost a great talent.
"Charles Ouda gave us the best cast for Pepeta, one of the best shows we have ever had in Kenya, and was part of great shows like Makutano Junction and Better Days, not forgetting the children's show on Citizen TV called Know Zone. We have lost such a talent. May he rest well."
Syata Linda remembered Ouda's storytelling on Akili Kids and his acting on Changing Times.
"We have lost a really amazing actor," she said.
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