By Editor
Remember the bold intern in Single Kiasi who relentlessly pursued Sintamei (Gathoni Mutua)? That breakout role launched Brian Abajah into the spotlight.
Abajah once pursued a law degree before ditching courtrooms for the camera. Since then, the actor and commercial model has soared, starring in major productions like Mission to Rescue (Kenya’s 2022 Oscar submission), Crime and Justice, and Second Family.
But beyond his striking looks, Abajah constantly pushes boundaries. Now, he headlines Showmax’s gripping youth drama Reckless as Pete, a privileged young man whose life unravels after a tragic illegal street race involving his younger brother (Sammy Okore).
In an exclusive interview with Showmax, Abajah opens up about his journey, his challenging role in Reckless, and his advocacy for inclusivity in film.
From Law to Acting: How Did It Happen?
“I studied law, but I didn’t finish, life took its own twist,” Abajah admits. “Now, I’m fully into acting and chasing my dream of becoming a producer. I love embracing whatever life throws at me.”
Why Reckless Drew Him
In Having played diverse roles in Crime and Justice and Single Kiasi, Abajah was drawn to Pete’s emotional turmoil.
“He’s forced out of the city and must adapt to a new world. The role pushed me that’s what I loved about it.”
Watching Himself On-Screen? No, Thanks!
“I saw Single Kiasi at the premiere, but that’s it,” he laughs. “It’s awkward, you notice every little thing you’d change. So, no, I don’t rewatch myself.”
Preparing for Pete’s Transformation
Pete starts as an entitled rich kid but evolves dramatically. To nail the role, Abajah studied the script intensely and credits director Gilbert Lukali and acting coach Caroline Odongo.
“The vulnerable scenes were toughest. Sometimes, we needed multiple takes to get it right.”
Championing Inclusivity in Film
Abajah advocates for representation, recently starring in Silent Checkmate with a predominantly Deaf cast.
“I want to amplify unheard voices. Our industry is growing, but we need more inclusive storytelling.”
Dream Franchise Roles? Black Panther* & Creed
“I’d love to play T’Challa’s son in Black Panther, that film inspired me globally,” he says. “And Creed 4? As an athlete, I’d kill for a boxing role like Michael B. Jordan’s.”
“My secret talent is that I impersonate people close to me, which serves as my go-to party trick, while my comfort food is always chicken spring rolls. If I could choose a dream street race car, it would definitely be the Audi R8 for its fast, sleek, and perfect design. Among my co-stars, Sammy Okore is the one most like his character; he’s literally playing himself as a rich kid and ladies’ man. For a crossover dream, I would choose “Gangs of London” because of its insane cinematography and acting. As for dating, I’m not focused on that right now since work is my priority, but I want to let you know my DMs are open!,” said Abajah during a rapid fire questions.
Abajah is building his own production house. “I want to create impactful content and inspire the next generation.”Catch Brian Abajah in Reckless, now streaming on Showmax.
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