Muthoni Gathecha is a renowned Kenyan actress who has captivated viewers with her powerful performances. With her remarkable talent and dedication, the actress who started late has become a prominent figure in the Kenyan entertainment industry.
In this article, WoK looks into the fascinating world of Muthoni as we explore her acting career, notable roles, and personal life.
Early Life and Education
Muthoni Gathecha was born on April 8, 1962. With a passion for education, she pursued a career in teaching and later became an education administrator at Kenyatta University.
Before venturing into acting, she had a fulfilling career in education. She became a school principal by the age of 30.
In a past talk on Engage, Muthoni details her early life saying,
“I did not perform as well as my father expected me to you see I am the last one child of my mother and the third born child of my father so hey, you guessed right I hail from a polygamous family and for those of you who are able to appreciate that the birth order affects the personality of an individual can imagine the turmoil that goes on inside me as I juggle between last-born personality traits and middle child personality”
She later expanded her academic horizons by studying psychology at the United States International University.
This background in education and psychology would later influence her performances and enhance her understanding of complex characters.
Personal Life and Triumph over Adversity
Behind the scenes, Muthoni Gathecha has shown immense strength and resilience in her personal life.
Despite experiencing an abusive marriage that lasted 13 years, she summoned the courage to leave and build a better life for herself and her children.
Today, she is the proud mother of three remarkable children-Mchizi Gaza, a talented rap artist, Rowzah, a budding fashion designer, and Mizen, her youngest child.
The Journey to the Spotlight
Although Gathecha’s early professional life revolved around education, her desire for change and a broader impact led her to embark on a new path.
After completing a master’s degree, she made a courageous decision to pursue acting, despite being in her 50s.
This bold move marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey that would redefine her life and propel her into the spotlight.
The Acting Journey Begins
In 2013, at the age of 50, Muthoni Gathecha decided to pursue her dream of becoming an actress.
She auditioned for a role in the Kenyan telenovela “Kona” and secured the part of Ariya Oyange, one of the show’s protagonists. This breakthrough role marked the beginning of her acting career and introduced her to a wider audience.
She continues, “I auditioned for a role in a 250 episode series Kona with M-net I got the role so I left the comfort of a swivel chair and the security our monthly salary to move into the world of acting…”
Breakthrough Role: Kona
In 2013, Gathecha’s talent shone brighter when she secured a role in the popular Kenyan telenovela “Kona.”
As Ariya Oyange, a matriarchal figure, she captivated audiences with her compelling portrayal.
Collaborating with an ensemble cast, including Nini Wacera, Janet Sision, and Lwanda Jawar, Gathecha’s performance garnered critical acclaim and set the stage for her subsequent successes.
Television Successes
Following her success on “Kona,” Muthoni continued to make waves on the small screen. In 2014, she portrayed the villainous Margaret in the drama series “Pray and Prey,” showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Her portrayal of an overprotective and malevolent mother resonated with viewers and solidified her position as a talented performer.
Muthoni’s talent and charisma also shone through in the soap opera “Skandals kibao,” where she portrayed a loving mother to two daughters. This role further endeared her to audiences, and her on-screen presence contributed to the show’s success.
Film Endeavors and Notable Roles
In addition to her television work, Muthoni Gathecha has made notable appearances in various films and has been featured in productions under the Africa Magic Original Films Franchise. Some of her memorable film roles include:
“The Black Wedding” (2014): In this film, Muthoni took on the challenging role of Aunty, a deranged and disconnected woman who struggles with reality. Her ability to delve into complex characters and fully embody them was on display in this gripping film.
“Shortlist” (2014): Muthoni portrayed Mrs. Ukwaju, a wife and mother grappling with keeping her family together amidst her husband’s iron-fisted rule. Her performance resonated with audiences, highlighting her talent for portraying emotionally charged characters.
“Get Me a Job” (2014): In this film, Muthoni played the character of Mrs. Komeni, a malicious and conniving cougar who believes the world revolves around her. Her portrayal of this manipulative character showcased her versatility as an actress.
While Muthoni Gathecha’s filmography is still growing, her contributions to the Kenyan film industry have been significant. She continues to impress both audiences and critics with her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her roles.
Commercial Engagements And Life Beyond Acting
Muthoni Gathecha’s talent and on-screen presence have caught the attention of well-known brands, leading to collaborations in commercials and advertisements appearing in popular commercials for brands such as Snickers, Startimes, and Fay Tissues.
In addition to her acting career, Muthoni has also ventured into public speaking and serves as an MC for various events. She has participated in multiple theater plays in Kenya, including “Gangsta’s Paradise.
