Who was the late actor Charles Joseph Onyango Ouda?

• The veteran thespian was engaged to BBC journalist, Ciru Muruiki.

Charles Ouda
Image: Instagram

Veteran actor Charles Joseph Onyango Ouda passed on yesterday at the age of 38-years-old. The news has stunned Kenyans including celebrities with many wondering what might have happened as the cause of death hasn't been revealed yet.

Who was he?

Charles Joseph Onyango Ouda was a multi-talented Kenyan artist, recognized as an actor, writer, director, singer, TV host, and voice-over artist. He was engaged to former BBC presenter Ciru Muruiki.

In the 90s, the late Ouda gained prominence as a notable figure through his role in the popular show Makutano Junction.

His professional career began in 2002, and he has left a mark in various theaters and films, including 'Boy Gets Girl' (where he portrayed Tony), 'Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,' 'Balm in Gilead,' 'Andrew Lippa's 'Wild Party,'' 'The Iron Heel,' and 'Out of Africa: Journey through Magical Kenya.'

Ouda played a pivotal role in the famous TV series Makutano Junction, where he was the lead for over 12 episodes and contributed as a writer for some episodes.

One of his written episodes earned the World Media Award for Education in 2010.

As a director, Charles has gained acclaim for his work. His film 'Who Are You?' received the 2016 Asian American Film Lab's 72 Hour Shoot Out Judges Choice award and Best Director at the Film Lab Awards. He also wrote and directed the film 'Waiting Room.'

In addition to his acting and directing prowess, Charles is an outstanding TV host. He, along with co-host Sarah Hassan, won the Kalasha International Award for Best Television Host.

Despite his busy career, Charles took a hiatus to complete his 2-year Conservatory Program at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in New York.

Below are some key facts about the late Charles J. Ouda.

1) He was a proud dad.

2) Started his career after finishing high school and has been in the industry for over 20 years.

3) He completed a two-year conservatory program at The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in New York.

4) He starred in 8 plays as the lead actor.

5) He played lead roles in Better Days, Makutano Junction, Groove Theory, Quantico, and Crime and Justice.

6) Has won Best Director at the Film Lab Awards and the 2016 Asian American Film Lab's 72 Hour Shoot Out Judges Choice award.

7) He won the Kalasha International Award for being the best host alongside Sarah Hassan.

8) He directed 2 shows and 2 cabarets.

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