Popular Actor Bilal Wanjau Dies

by Rene Otinga on Thursday, 4 December 2025 - 11:57 am

Actor Bilal Wanjau

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Bilal Wanjau

Renowned actor Bilal Wanjau has passed away.

Confirming the demise to Kenyans.co.ke, a friend close to the actor said he passed away due to an illness he had been battling for months. He passed away on Thursday, December 4.

Wanjau's industry friend Sandra Dacha also confirmed his passing in a heartfelt message on social media, hailing him as a talented thespian.

"It is with profound sorrow that I announce the untimely passing of my colleague Bilal Wanjau this early morning due to complications," Dacha shared in a statement.

Former Tahidi High and Jela 5 Star actor Bilal Wanjau

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Bilal Wanjau

While the particulars of his demise have not been made official, there are suggestions that the deceased developed complications from diabetes in the months leading up to his passing.

For many, the comedic and often downright hilarious actor was a memorable part of childhood, thanks to his performances on the popular show Tahidi High on Citizen TV.

Once Tahidi High transitioned to newer and fresher talents, Bilal transitioned to other more recurring roles, featuring in productions including Lies that Bind, Pepeta and the popular comedy Jela 5 Star.

The award-winning actor and director was also known for his work in films and stage plays and fans found him to be one of the most relatable characters on television.

In 2017, Wanjau won a Kalasha Award for Best Performance in a Comedy, thanks to his work on Jela 5 Star.

Besides local productions, Bilal's talents also earned him a place on the international front, as he featured in an 18-rated adult drama dubbed 4Play.

According to his close allies, the late Wanjau is set to be buried in his rural home in Machakos on Friday, December 5.

Throughout his acting career, Bilal was a huge advocate for local productions, as he often used his popularity to call for recogntion of the Kenyan Film industry.