Former Tahidi High actor Bilal Wanjau has passed away, Nairobi News has learnt.
Wanjau died on the morning of Thursday, December 4, while receiving treatment at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH).
According to his family, the actor succumbed to complications related to diabetes.
A family spokesperson revealed that Wanjau, who had been living with type 2 diabetes, had spent the past week battling pneumonia.
He was also managing a leg wound at the time of his death.
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The family said Wanjau was in Machakos on Sunday, November 30, when he suddenly began experiencing severe pain in one of his legs.
Relatives rushed him to the hospital the following day.
“We brought him to the hospital on Monday, and they ran tests till Wednesday. The doctors were about to begin treatment before he passed on later in the night,” the spokesperson said.
Wanjau had been admitted on Monday, December 1.
The family further confirmed that burial preparations are underway, with the interment scheduled for Friday, December 5, in Machakos County.
His death has sent shockwaves through Kenya’s creative industry and the country at large, with hundreds of fans and colleagues taking to social media to mourn the celebrated actor.
Among them was actress Sandra Dacha, who shared an emotional video with the late actor, accompanied by the caption:
“It is with profound sorrow that I announce the untimely passing on of my colleague Bilal Wanjau this early morning due to diabetes complications.
Bilal was a GREAT, TALENTED ACTOR! We’ve lost one of the BEST in the industry.
Burial date is set for Friday (tomorrow), 5/12/2025, at his rural home in Machakos. Kindly keep the family in your prayers.
May God rest his soul in eternal peace.”
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Wanjau first became a household name in 2009 after starring in the iconic Utahama Lini? TV commercial.
He later featured in several acclaimed productions, including Sumu la Penzi, Tahidi High, Jela 5 Star (as Afande Kasoro), Njoro wa Uba, and Hullabaloo Estate, among others.
He won the Kalasha Award for Best Performance in a Comedy in 2017 for his role in Jela 5 Star.
Bilal Wanjau is fondly remembered for his sharp wit, compelling screen presence, and versatility.
He rose to prominence through Tahidi High, becoming a familiar and beloved figure for an entire generation of Kenyan viewers.
A highly decorated actor and director, Wanjau built a diverse and impactful career across film, television, and theatre, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished for years to come.
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