Godfrey Odhiambo on Reckless, His Journey, and the Rise of Kenyan Film.
By Peace Muthoka.
Back in 2007, Kenyan cinema reached a turning point with Bob Nyanja’s bold romantic drama Malooned!. At its heart was a young Godfrey Odhiambo, whose unforgettable performance as a man trapped in a washroom with a fiery stranger captured audiences’ attention and sparked debate.
Since then, Godfrey has grown into one of Kenya’s most respected actors, with powerful performances in acclaimed films like From a Whisper, Nairobi Half Life, and Subira.
Now, he’s back on screen in Reckless, a gripping youth drama where he takes on one of his most demanding roles yet as Edward Sonoko, the calm but firm patriarch of the Sonoko family, fighting ruthless corporate rivals while struggling to rein in his sons’ reckless choices.
In an exclusive interview with Showmax, Godfrey opens up about his latest role, his career journey, and how far Kenyan film has come.
What has changed the most in the Kenyan film industry since your early roles in Malooned! and From a Whisper?
“I think the biggest change has been audience acceptance,” Godfrey says with a smile. “These days, Kenyans celebrate local content like never before. It’s amazing to see people proudly supporting homegrown stories. For actors and filmmakers like me, that means everything. It feels good knowing our own people are cheering for us.”
What drew you to the character of Edward Sonoko in Reckless?
“Edward is calm, grounded, and deeply family-oriented,” he explains. “I connected with him on a personal level because I’m also a father of two boys just like Edward. My sons share so many traits with his. It felt like art imitating life. Every scene came naturally; it almost felt like I was living my real life on screen. It was truly special.”
How was it working with Brian Abajah and Sammy Okore to portray that intense family dynamic?
“The story itself gave us so much to build on,” Godfrey says. “Then, as actors, we spent time experimenting, finding what worked best to make the tension real. Brian especially reminded me of my younger self during the Malooned! days. Off set, we had deep conversations about life, work, and growth the kind I wish I’d had at his age.”
You’ve acted in both theatre and film. What’s the biggest difference in preparing for each?
“When you’re preparing for stage, your performance is out there one take, one shot,” he explains. “On screen, you get several takes, but it’s more internal. Stage acting demands you embody the whole character for hours, while screen acting focuses on one scene at a time. Stage work is tougher to prepare for, but it’s also incredibly fulfilling.”
Edward Sonoko’s story involves great sacrifice. Without giving spoilers, what should audiences expect?
“The audience is going to love Edward,” he says with a knowing grin. “Let’s just say they’re in for an emotional ride full of twists, turns, and moments they won’t see coming.”
What advice would you give young actors trying to break into the industry?
“To all the young and upcoming actors treat acting as a sacred craft,” he says firmly. “Don’t rush. Before you market yourself, take time to learn and master your skills. Be open to correction, stay disciplined, and always be willing to grow. Those qualities will set you apart. Respect the craft, and it will reward you more than you can imagine.”
What are you currently watching on Showmax?
“Right now, I’m watching Jiji and Faithless,” he shares.
Your favorite moment on set?
“That moment just before the camera rolls,” he says with a laugh. “When you let go of all the preparation and just live the scene that transition from practice to performance is pure magic.”
If you could give your 20-year-old self one piece of advice?
“Challenge yourself to be a better version of you. Your only competition should be who you were yesterday.”
How do you unwind when you’re not working?
“I love watching my favorite shows, hitting the gym, and spending time with my family,” he says. “That’s my perfect reset.”
Any hidden talents or hobbies?
“I can dance,” he reveals with a grin. “And I love swimming. As big as I am, yes, I can swim.”
Your go-to comfort meal after a long filming day?
“Wet-fried kienyeji chicken with ugali and kachumbari — that’s unbeatable.”
What’s next for you?
“There’s a stage play I’m preparing for,” he teases. “That’s my next big focus.”
Watch Godfrey Odhiambo in Reckless, streaming now on Showmax every Monday and Tuesday.
