5 Kenyans who are making a name in Hollywood
By Isaac Mutia, July 14, 2025Kenyan actors transitioning from local theatre stages to global Hollywood screens is a powerful narrative of perseverance, talent, and cultural pride.
Here’s a look at some inspiring stories of success that reflect this remarkable journey. Lupita Nyong’o, an Oscar-winning actress known for her role in 12 Years a Slave, is perhaps the most prominent.
This list, from award-winning leading ladies to breakout supporting stars and genre-crossing creatives, reflects Kenya’s growing influence in global entertainment.
They shine on-screen, behind the mic, and even in virtual realms. Here are 5 Kenyan actors making major moves in Hollywood in 2025:
Edi Gathegi
A Nairobi-born Kenyan-American, Edi is gaining blockbuster traction as Mister Terrific in the upcoming Superman: Legacy (out July 11, 2025).
The blockbuster is already smashing box office expectations, with early projections soaring towards a Ksh16.9 billion opening weekend in the US, signalling a triumphant start for the revamped DC Universe.
Mr Terrific, known for his extraordinary intellect, mastery of technology, and impeccable combat skills, brings a fresh dynamic to Superman’s world, challenging traditional notions of what a hero can be.
“My physique had zero role on Mister Terrific, in fact James pulled me aside very early in the process and said, ‘the character comes in for book readers but it is not one of the characters that is for the audience at large, so people do not know this character, and they do not have any expectations. If you do not want to get into superhero shape for this act, you do not have to,” he said during a recent interview.
Known for roles in Twilight, X‑Men: First Class, The Blacklist, and Into the Badlands, Edi continues to bring versatility and charisma to major Hollywood franchises.
Lupita Nyong’o
Oscar winner for 12 Years a Slave, Lupita remains a star of both Star Wars and the Black Panther universe.
She recently opened up about the emotional impact of modifying her Kenyan accent for roles—a powerful reminder of cultural identity and resilience.
Nyong’o is the daughter of Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyong’o.
Benjamin Onyango
Also known as Benji, this Kenyan-American brings depth to supporting roles in films like Tears of the Sun, God’s Not Dead, and Beautifully Broken.
His fluency in Kiswahili has made him a unique voice in Hollywood and behind the scenes as a producer and sound editor.
Abubakar Salim
A Kenyan-British talent, Abubakar earned a BAFTA Games nod for his voice starring in Assassin’s Creed Origins.
On-screen, he appeared in Raised by Wolves (HBO Max) and Jamestown (Sky One). Also a game developer, he’s bridging diverse creative worlds.
Sammy “Nagi” Njuguna
Kenyan-American actor best known for roles in Black as Night (Blumhouse), The 5th Quarter, and NCIS: New Orleans.
Born to Kenyan parents in Columbia, he brings authentic East African storytelling to U.S. screens.