By Editor
For nearly three decades, Eddie Mbugua has mastered the art of the complex character. Now, the actor famous for his role as a money-laundering mastermind in Igiza is diving back into sinister territory as the manipulative James Amani in the Showmax youth drama Reckless.
Mbugua’s new character schemes to dismantle the powerful Sonoko family from within. In an exclusive interview, the veteran actor reveals how he brings such compelling villains to life and why he believes Kenyan storytelling is entering a golden age.
On keeping his performances fresh after 30 years
Mbugua rejects the idea of pretending. Instead, he approaches each role as a conduit for human experience.
“One thing I always make sure to do is approach my character from a human perspective, not just through the script,” he says. “Your job is to take the script and translate it into something real and alive for the audience… It is about breathing life into those characters and making their stories resonate. That is what keeps me passionate about what I do.”
On the unique power of Kenyan storytelling
Mbugua points to a new wave of confidence and creativity propelling Kenyan content onto the global stage.”We are not imitating anyone or forcing ourselves into someone else’s narrative. We are representing Kenya, and that’s something beautiful,” he states, crediting platforms like Showmax for having the courage to bring local stories to life.
He highlights the groundbreaking sci-fi series Subterranea as a prime example. “That was groundbreaking sci-fi set in Africa, it’s daring, it’s different, but we pulled it off.
That is what I admire about us, we are venturing beyond the norm.”On finding the humanity in his new villain, James Amani:While James acts as an antagonist, Mbugua insists audiences will see his motivations.
He describes the character as a product of a skewed system.”James isn’t asking for the world, he just wants his fair share, his slice of the pie. Isn’t that what anyone would want?” he explains.
“Some might even empathize with him, maybe even experience a little Stockholm Syndrome.”Mbugua believes the character challenges viewers’ definitions of villainy. “Is the villain the person who takes shortcuts to succeed, or the one who struggles endlessly while trying to do the right thing? Reckless challenges us to rethink these ideas.”
Quick Takes with Eddie: Dream Collaborator
Producer Philip Bresson of Insignia Production, for mastering the balance between creative and business success.· Current Binge Watch: The mind-bending Apple TV+ series Severance. “I need something that will make me think and open my dimensions.”·
Go-To Comfort: Coffee. “I’m more of a coffee person… it’s the only addiction that I have and I’m content with.”A Final Word to the Next Generation:Mbugua is bullish on the future.
His advice to new filmmakers is to think bigger
“We are stepping up with stories that are bold, authentic, and uniquely ours,” he says.
“Why not set a story in space? Who says Kenyans can’t be astronauts? Move beyond the clichés, show the world all sides of Kenya. Let’s tell our stories with boldness, because being true to ourselves is how we shine.”
Catch Eddie Mbugua causing chaos in Reckless, streaming now on Showmax.
