Kenya's film industry was plunged into mourning on Sunday, April 20, after the passing of former Tahidi High actress Alice Wairimu, popularly known by her stage name Alicia Nimo.
The actress passed away on the morning of Saturday, April 19, after collapsing in her home, according to our sources.
A source close to the actress confirmed to Kenyans.co.ke that Alice's death came just days after her health deteriorated following a short illness.
The late actress's family has confirmed her passing away but is yet to disclose what illness she was ailing from before her passing, with reports suggesting she did not have any underlying ailments.
Tributes have since started pouring in, with the actress getting described as a kind-hearted individual and one who was destined for greatness.
Alice's body has since been taken to the Kenyatta University mortuary, awaiting an autopsy. The family has created a WhatsApp group to raise funds to honour their loved one.
The actress's passing came as a shock to many, especially because she was just breaking into Kenya's mainstream entertainment industry.
She initially started out at Ebru TV and has had stints in shows like Tahidi High, the Netflix show Cash Money and another series known as Nduthi.
Wairimu is the second big name attached to Tahidi High to pass away in recent times, with her passing coming months after Xavier Jerry Nato passed away after a prolonged battle with kidney disease.
The celebrated actor passed away weeks after his family made a public appeal on social media in November, seeking the public's help in facilitating his medical expenses. At the time, the family revealed the actor required specialised treatment and care.
Before his illness, Nato was a popular figure in the Kenyan entertainment scene as an actor and behind the scenes.
He produced some impressive works of art in the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival, with his efforts earning him awards in the process, including the KTA’s Inaugural Best Playwright Award in 2022.
