The show is expected to entertain while igniting vital conversations on sexual and reproductive health, consent and informed decision-making, empowering young audiences across Kenya.
Meet Eric (played by Matthew Ngugi), who is torn between staying true to himself and conforming to his father’s expectations. Eric tries to meet his father’s unrealistic demands of him, yet nothing is enough. He watches in disbelief of how his sister, Nyokabi (played by Serah Wanjiru), is favoured by their father. Eric has a strong conviction that Nyokabi shouldn’t be the golden child.
His father drives him to the edge with more demands, and it is more than he can give. The first-year student is also finding ways to fit in his new school environment as he navigates peer pressure.
With the weight of living up to his father’s standards and facing societal expectations ahead of him, Eric charts an unfamiliar territory of self-discovery and embracing his self-identity.
“As he finds himself, he becomes totally different from what is expected,” hints Matthew.
This is a brief story of Eric, a character of the ‘MTV Shuga Mashariki’ TV series to premiere next week. The show also stars Serah Wanjiru, Julie Brenda, Basil Mungai, and Makena Kahuha. The TV series, with its first production of the franchise in 2009 that featured the likes of Oscar-winner Lupita Nyongó, tackles issues that the youths grapple with.
Each actor brings their unique style to the show, adding depth to the characters and themes that MTV Shuga has become known for.
Set against the backdrop of campus life, the show continues its tradition of using storytelling to challenge societal norms. With a focus on issues like gender roles, peer pressure, mental health, and financial independence, MTV Shuga Mashariki seeks to spark conversations that matter.
The series is known for its raw, relatable narratives that resonate with young audiences, and this season is no different.
The cast was selected from a nationwide audition process held in October 2024, where over 1,600 hopefuls competed for a spot on the show.
Through its episodes, the series offers an unflinching exploration of social dynamics, tackling themes of love, ambition, peer pressure, mental health and the power of community support.
With captivating performances and visually compelling storytelling, it aims to both entertain and empower to realise change: this is part of MTV SAF’s collaboration with Shujaaz under the Surround Sound Kenya Programme which seeks to challenge norms as they affect the outcomes of young people in Kenya.
“The social issues that stand out in the show are self-identity and agency. It is about knowing yourself and the decisions you make with emphasis on boundaries,” says Matthew.
Matthew says he had a challenge with the portrayal of Eric, as he is a contrast to his personality. He crafted the enactment of the character from scratch, understanding his environment and perspectives.
“He is nowhere near who I am, except for quiet moments,” he says.
Meet Nyokabi: a complex and flawed human being trying to figure out life.
“There is something raw about her flaws. Sometimes she is informed; other times she is not. Sometimes she acts from a place of grace; other times she does not,” explains Serah.
As Eric and Nyokabi are entangled in sibling rivalry, in real life Matthew and Serah have carved a special co-star relationship. Matthew describes her as a selfless talent who gives her all in developing her character.
“She understood when to take the lead and when to take a step back,” he says fondly.
It warms Sarah’s heart that she is bestowed with the responsibility of being a vessel through her craft to address themes affecting young people, hoping that young audiences can get something meaningful from the show.
Even as ‘MTV Shuga Mashariki’ embodies important messages, it doesn’t shy away from steamy scenes, as the trailer lured the audience in with glimpses of it.
Serah shares that the help from intimacy coordinators Sarah Blecher and Nice Githinji created a safe space for them to explore intimate scenes. The two take a delicate approach to make the actors feel like there were normal scenes.
Before the filming of her role, Serah has simple rituals she practises.
“If the scene needs emotions, I sit by myself and listen to music that carries the same emotions. If it is a high-energy scene, I will have interactions with the people on set,” she says.
Serah Wanjiru
Serah Wanjiru is a talented and versatile actress with a growing portfolio in both film and television.
With each role, she brings a unique energy and depth that captivates her audience, showcasing her range and commitment to storytelling.
Her film career features standout performances, including ‘Killer Music’ (2024) where she played Shannon and ‘Volume’ (2023) as Lucy. She also starred as Joy in ‘Grogan’s Lodge’ (2023), Neema in ‘Paa’ (2022), and Amina in the heartfelt ‘Sincerely Daisy’ (2020).
Additionally, Serah portrayed Malkia in ‘Present Chronicles’ (2021) and Joy in ‘Stinger’ (2022), further proving her skill in leading and supporting roles. In television, Serah has been equally impactful.
She brought authenticity to her character Shei in ‘Second Family’ (2023) and portrayed Mitchelle in ‘Salem’ (2022). Other notable appearances include Lucy in ‘Crime and Justice’ (2021), Nia in ‘Scream’ (2020), and a compelling turn as the reporter in ‘TRHK’ (2020).
Her career began with the reality-based role of herself in ‘Next Superstar’ (2019), which introduced her talent to a broader audience.
Serah Wanjiru’s dynamic performances across diverse genres have made her one of the most promising actresses in the industry today.
Julie Brenda
Meet Asha (played by Julie Brenda), a bold and fierce character who fights for the other students and makes them feel loved. “I enjoyed playing the bold character. In the next season, I would like people to see her soft side and her embrace of both the good and bad elements of life,” she says.
Julie is an accomplished actor whose performances have graced numerous film and television productions. Audiences may recognise her as Bella in ‘Kina’, Naisula in ‘Naisula’, or Brenda in ‘My Bad’.
Her remarkable ability to infuse her characters with authenticity and depth earned her accolades, including a nomination for Best Supporting Actor in a TV Series for her role as Bella by the Kalasha Awards Committee.
Additionally, she received the Best Actress in a Leading Role award for her performance as Makena at the African Smartphone Film Festival.
On his part, Matthew is a versatile Kenyan actor celebrated for his dynamic on-screen performances and impactful stage roles, which have cemented his reputation in the performing arts industry.
His most recent achievement is starring as a main character in the Netflix series ‘Mo-Faya’, a gripping drama that premiered to critical acclaim. He also garnered widespread recognition for his portrayal of Gerald, a stylish and charismatic fashion stylist, in the Showmax series ‘Big Girl Small World’. Beyond the stage and screen, Matthew’s creative reach extends to commercial projects.
Basil Mungai
Basil’s talent has been recognised with accolades such as the Best Actor in a Film award at the 2022 Kalasha Film Festival. His filmography includes standout performances in various productions.
Notable roles include Kevin Motego, a breakout lead character in the acclaimed film ‘Click Click Bang’ (2022), which earned industry-wide recognition across Africa, and Zike, the head boy in Mono (2021).
Makena, who is also a mental health advocate, started acting at the age of six on the popular TV show ‘Wingu la Moto’. Her talent quickly garnered attention, leading to roles in other popular shows like Makutano Junction.
Fashion statements were not left behind in this show to such a degree that it is what stands out the most to both Julie and Serah. The actors, styled by Duncan Kimit and Eddah Wakesho, described the wardrobe choices as distinct to the characters’ personalities.
“MTV Shuga Mashariki marks a bold new chapter in the Shuga universe. We are proud to bring together a diverse cast that authentically reflects Kenyan culture while addressing the complex challenges young people face daily,” said Mitchelle Kimathi, Country Manager for the MTV Staying Alive Foundation.
While the storyline remains tightly under wraps, fans can expect the signature MTV Shuga mix of drama and real-life challenges, delivered through compelling performances and thought-provoking themes.
MTV Shuga Mashariki is expected to entertain while igniting vital conversations on agency, sexual and reproductive health, consent and informed decision-making, empowering young audiences across Kenya.
Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated on the latest developments and special offers!
