| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Full name | Bilal Wanjau |
| Age (at time of passing) | Reportedly 62 |
| Nationality / Ethnicity | Kenyan (though some reports mention “tribe: Yoruba” — note: this is unverified) |
| Spouse / Wife | Not publicly disclosed |
| Net worth (reported by some sources) | ~$140,000 — though this figure is not confirmed by independent wealth audits |
| Known for | Acting roles in TV dramas & films; also director; breakout via “Utahama Lini” commercial, starring role in Tahidi High, and appearances in many Kenyan productions |
| Major award | Kalasha Award — Best Performance in a Comedy (2017) for his role in Jela 5 Star. |
| Cause of passing | Complications related to type 2 diabetes, a leg wound, pneumonia; he passed away at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), Nairobi |
Early Life & Career Beginnings
Bilal Wanjau’s journey into acting traced back to his early passion for theatre and drama during school. His big break came in 2009 when he appeared in a national lottery campaign commercial dubbed “Utahama Lini?” — a role that gave him broad visibility.
From there, he transitioned into mainstream television and film, earning a reputation for versatility: comedic timing, dramatic depth, and a screen presence that resonated with many viewers across generations.
Rise to Fame — Memorable Roles & Achievements
Tahidi High
Among the roles that etched his name in the hearts of many was his performance in Tahidi High, one of Kenya’s most popular school-dramas. His comedic sensibilities and relatable depiction helped endear him to a generation of viewers, making him a household name.
Other notable works
Over the years, Bilal Wanjau appeared in numerous productions, including:
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Jela 5 Star (where he won the 2017 Kalasha Award for Best Comedy Performance)
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Films and dramas: Sumu la Penzi, Njoro wa Uba, Hullabaloo Estate, among others.
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In recent years, he remained active, appearing in streaming productions like 4Play (2024–2025), where he played “Michael” — a testament to his enduring relevance in Kenya’s evolving entertainment landscape
Recognition & Impact
His 2017 Kalasha Award win underscored his talent and cemented his legacy as one of Kenya’s comedic stalwarts. Colleagues and younger creatives have, in recent days, credited him as a mentor and inspiration — someone who helped shape the industry and supported upcoming talent.
Illness and Passing Away
Sadly, Bilal Wanjau’s final days were marked by illness. According to his family, he had been living with type 2 diabetes, a chronic condition that requires careful management. In the week before his death, he reportedly developed pneumonia and was also dealing with a wound on his leg.
Events unfolded quickly: he was rushed to hospital after leg pain, admitted to KNH on Monday, December 1, underwent tests, but despite efforts by medical staff, he passed away in the early hours of Thursday, December 4, 2025.
One colleague — actress Sandra Dacha — publicly confirmed the tragic news, describing his death as due to “complications linked to diabetes,” and called on the public to pray for his family.
Immediately following the announcement, tributes poured in from fans — remembering his warmth, humour, and the countless roles through which he touched lives.
Legacy & Influence
Bilal Wanjau leaves behind a legacy shaped by talent, versatility, and authenticity. His career trajectory — from commercials to major TV dramas, films, and streaming productions — mirrored the evolution of Kenya’s entertainment industry itself. Through decades, he remained adaptable and relevant.
Colleagues credit him for being more than a star — a mentor who opened doors to up-and-coming creatives. For example, content-creator Kabugi recently described how Bilal gave him guidance in the early days of content creation, even offering ideas and support without asking for payment.
For many fans, Bilal’s performances weren’t just entertainment — they were memory anchors: childhood afternoons watching Tahidi High, shared laughter over comedic scenes, or even reflections on life through his dramatic roles. His passing feels deeply personal for a generation that grew up with him on screen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What caused Bilal Wanjau’s death?
A: According to family and close colleagues, he passed away due to complications related to type 2 diabetes. In the days before his death he had also developed pneumonia and was managing a wound on his leg.
Q: How old was he when he died?
A: Reports state he was 62 years old at the time of his passing.
Q: Was he married?
A: There is no credible public record confirming a spouse or wife for Bilal Wanjau. Most media obituaries simply note “wife not disclosed” or omit any mention of a partner entirely.
Q: What was his net worth?
A: Some sources have cited a figure of roughly $140,000. However, this appears to be speculative and lacks verification from independent financial audits, so treat it with caution.
Q: What are his most memorable works?
A: He was best known for Tahidi High — which made him a household name — and later for his award-winning role in Jela 5 Star. Over the years, he also appeared in films and TV dramas such as Sumu la Penzi, Njoro wa Uba, Hullabaloo Estate, and more recently the streaming series 4Play.
Final Thoughts
The passing of Bilal Wanjau is a profound loss — not only for Kenyan film and television, but for everyone whose lives he touched through his characters, his humour, and his humanity. In an age where fame often comes with pretense, Bilal stood out for authenticity: he portrayed ordinary people with warmth, vulnerability, and humour — and made them unforgettable.
As the tributes and mourners continue, the best way to honour his memory is to revisit and cherish the work he left behind, and to remember him not just as an actor, but as a genuine soul who brought laughter, reflection, and joy to many.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
