This archive report was first published on 30 December 2021.
Kenyan Entertainment in 2021: A Year of Original Crime Dramas and Music ¶
December 30, 2021, marked the end of a remarkable year for Kenyan entertainment, with the release of several original crime dramas and a musical that left audiences in awe.
One of the standout productions of the year was Borderline, a crime drama set in Nairobi's Eastlands. The show follows two gangsters, Lebanon Sempele 'Lebo' and Tabuu, as they fight for territory and control while engaging in a deadly war with the police. Lebo, played by George Mo, is a reformed gangster who is forced to assemble his gang once again when the lives of those he loves are threatened.
George Mo's portrayal of Lebo earned him a nomination for Best Actor in a TV Drama at the 2021 Kalasha Awards. The show's gripping storyline and outstanding performances made it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas.
Another notable release of the year was Uradi, a musical that premiered in September 2020 at the Galleria drive-in cinema. Due to government restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the film's release was muted. However, it made its debut on Netflix a week ago, offering the film the much-needed viewership it deserves.
Kenyan audiences were also treated to Crime and Justice, the first Kenyan Showmax Original police procedural. The show follows detectives Silas and Makena, played by Alfred Munyua and Sarah Hassan, as they lead the Nairobi Metropol Police in solving crimes. Sarah Hassan's outstanding performance earned her the Best Actress in a Drama award at the 2021 Kalasha Awards.
Lastly, Baba Twins and Famous were notable releases in 2021. Baba Twins is a coming-of-age comedy-drama that follows Tony and Wamz, a young couple who are thrown in the middle of raising twins just when their careers are beginning to take off. Famous is a ten-part music drama series that follows three young artists as they navigate the music industry in Kenya.
