By Antynet Ford
Kenya’s film industry and Kenyans are mourning the passing of veteran actor, scriptwriter, and director Charles ‘Charlie’ J. Ouda. The family of the well-known actor and his fianceé Ciru Muriuki announced his passing yesterday in a statement.
“Dear friends and family, it is with great sadness that we share the passing of Charles ‘Charlie’ J Ouda on the night of February 3, 2024.” The family said in a statement.
They requested privacy for the bereaved fiancée and Ouda family as they navigate through the challenging period. They also requested space to mourn the loss, with additional information to be shared in due time.
Charlie was renowned for his noteworthy contributions to diverse film projects including Makutano Junction, The First Grader, and Count It Out, was not only a gifted actor but also a distinguished film director and scriptwriter.
He also starred in other television shows like The Know Zone Changing Times (KTN), Higher Learning, Changes, Mali (NTV), Second Family, Crime and Justice (Showmax), and Salem (Maisha Magic).
His outstanding abilities garnered him numerous accolades, including the prestigious title of Best Director at the 2016 Asian American Film Lab 72 Hour Shoot Out and multiple awards from the NYC Indie Film Awards.
Moments before his death, Charlie was his colleague actor of Salem Telenovela in a fan event. The colleagues have expressed their sadness, shock, and disbelief. He was engaged to Ciru, the former BBC Africa presenter.
They both announced their engagement in September 2023, enchanting many with their endearing moments.