Nairobi — Renowned Kenyan actor and director Bilal Wanjau has passed away while undergoing treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital, according to his family. Wanjau, who had been managing type 2 diabetes and a leg wound, was admitted to the hospital on Monday after experiencing sudden pain in one of his legs while in Machakos.
The family spokesperson stated that Wanjau had been battling pneumonia in the week leading up to his hospitalization. Despite undergoing tests, Wanjau’s condition took a turn for the worse, and he passed away on Wednesday night, just as doctors were about to begin treatment.
Wanjau’s career in the entertainment industry spanned film, television, theater, and commercial work. He gained widespread recognition in 2009 for his role in the “Utahama Lini?” national lottery campaign. He went on to appear in numerous productions, including Sumu la Penzi, Tahidi High, and Jela 5 Star, showcasing his versatility as a performer. In 2017, Wanjau won the Kalasha Award for Best Performance in a Comedy for his standout role in Jela 5 Star.
Born to former Olympic boxing bronze medalist Ibrahim “Surf” Bilal, Wanjau developed a passion for drama at a young age. He honed his craft at St. Teresa’s Boys Secondary School and Eastleigh High School before catching the attention of producers at the National Theatre. Wanjau’s sharp wit and commanding screen presence made him a household name, particularly through his role on Citizen TV’s Tahidi High.
Beyond his acting career, Wanjau was an advocate for the arts, highlighting their potential to create employment and inspire creativity among Kenyan youth. His family has appealed for prayers as they prepare to lay him to rest, with burial preparations underway in Machakos County. The ceremony is scheduled to take place on Friday.
Wanjau’s passing has left a void in Kenya’s entertainment industry, where he was fondly remembered for his contributions to film, television, and theater. As the country mourns his loss, his legacy is expected to continue inspiring future generations of actors and artists. With his burial set to take place tomorrow, Wanjau’s family and fans will gather to pay their respects to a talented individual who left an indelible mark on Kenya’s cultural landscape.