Kenyans eulogise Wanjau as a humourous and jovial person
Kenya’s entertainment industry has suffered a major blow following the passing on of former Tahidi High actor Bilal Wanjau who died while receiving treatment at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) on Thursday December 4, 2025 while undergoing treatment.
Wanjau was buried yesterday according to Muslim rites in Machakos.
Wanjau, who had been living with type 2 diabetes, had spent the past week fighting pneumonia while also managing a wound on his leg, the family said.
Preceding his death, the family spokesperson said Wanjau was in Machakos when he suddenly began experiencing pain in one of his legs, prompting relatives to take him to the hospital the next day.
Wanjau’s death is a huge blow to the Kenyan film and television industry. His passing came after an illness he had reportedly battled for months.
Bilal Wanjau earned his place in the hearts of many Kenyans through his memorable performances in iconic local dramas.
He cut his teeth on the widely loved series Tahidi High, a show that shaped much of his early career and made him a household name.
Over the years, Wanjau expanded his craft beyond Tahidi High.
His credits include appearances in shows such as Bazenga, The Runaway and Wimped. He also featured in productions like Lies That Bind and the Maisha Magic series Jela 5 Star (Afande Kasoro), Njoro wa Uba, and Hullabaloo Estate, among others.
He won Best Performance in a Comedy in Kalasha 2017 for his role in Jela 5 Star. Friends and colleagues noted that complications stemming from diabetes may have contributed to his untimely demise.
As tributes continued to pour in online even after his burial, many Kenyans reflect on the joy Wanjau brought into their living rooms and the laughter he sparked on screen.
His loss is felt deeply across the creative community and beyond.
