By John Mutiso
The entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of former Tahidi High actor Bilal Wanjau.
In an update on Thursday, December 4, fellow actress Sandra Dacha said Wanjau died early in the morning after developing complications linked to diabetes.
“It is with profound sorrow that I announce the untimely passing on of my colleague Bilal Wanjau this early morning due to diabetes complications,” she confirmed.
Dacha also paid tribute to the late actor, describing him as highly gifted and a significant figure in Kenya’s creative industry.
She highlighted the loss felt by the sector and announced that Wanjau will be laid to rest at his rural home on Friday, December 5.
“Bilal was a great talented actor! We’ve lost one of the best in the industry. Burial date is set for Friday, December 5, at his rural home in Machakos. Kindly keep the family in your prayers. May God rest his soul in eternal peace,” she added.
Wanjau’s passion for acting took root during his high school years, where he wrote and directed scripts as early as Form Three.
After completing high school, he transitioned to professional sets and quickly gained prominence through memorable NTV commercials such as Utahama Lini (2011) and Utahama Roundi Hii (2013), where he played the character Junior.
His growing popularity earned him roles on major television stations, including the role of a bursar on Citizen TV’s Tahidi High and appearances on KTN’s Gavana.
Wanjau later became widely known for his standout role as prison guard Kasoro Bin Kasoro in Jela 5 Star on Maisha Magic East, a performance that won him the Best Performance in a Comedy award at the 2017 Kalasha Awards.
He continued to expand his portfolio with roles in Showmax’s Pepeta (2022), 4Play as Michael, Lies That Bind, Sumu la Mapenzi, Bazenga, The Runaway where he played The Boss, Wimped as Phil Wachira, and Gamble of the Kid.
Wanjau also featured in national lottery campaigns and films such as Njoro wa Uba and Mjinga na Ushenzi.
