Rising star Mathew Ngugi on fame, faith, and finding his voice in Adam to Eve
By Peace Muthoka
With only a few years in the industry, Mathew Ngugi is fast emerging as one of Kenya’s most promising acting talents. He blends charm, emotional depth, and effortless humour. From scene-stealing roles in Mo-Faya and Big Girl Small World to the wave of attention that followed MTV Shuga Mashariki, the Kenyatta University–trained actor is clearly on an upward path. Yet behind the growing fame is a self-described introvert who still gets stage jitters and would rather game than watch movies.
Now starring in Showmax’s Adam to Eve, Mathew brings Jackson to life, an office loudmouth with no filter, sharp wit, and an unexpected soft side. Off screen, he remains grounded, drawing strength from faith, childhood memories, and the belief that acting is a lifelong journey.
In an exclusive interview, Mathew opens up about his career, growth, and what lies ahead.
What inspired you to pursue acting?
I have wanted to be an actor since I was ten. I took part in music and drama throughout school. I never had one fixed career choice growing up. I kept shifting. Then I realised acting gives me the freedom to be anyone and everyone.
2024 was a big year for you, from Big Girl Small World and Mo-Faya to MTV Shuga Mashariki. How has the past year been?
It has been a huge blessing to witness this level of growth so early in my film career. Adjusting from a quiet life to public exposure was not easy. I had to learn how to interact with fans and the media, and my introverted nature did not help at all. I have learned that the moment you think you have arrived, you realise there is still more road ahead. There is so much to learn, and I am excited to keep growing as I rely on God’s wisdom to guide me.
Fans reacted strongly to MTV Shuga, from memes to criticism. How does that feedback shape you?
I do this because of the audience. Feedback matters because it shows how people think and feel. Without both positive and negative reactions, you miss the chance to identify gaps and improve.
You have worked with directors like Nick Mutuma, Reuben Odanga, and now Lizz Njagah and Alex Konstantaras. How has that shaped you?
Every director has a unique style. As an actor, you must learn to collaborate and communicate clearly. At the end of the day, you understand your character better than anyone else. I loved that Lizz and Alex gave me the freedom to make Jackson my own. I cannot wait for audiences to see how he turned out.
If Adam to Eve crossed over with another Showmax Original, which one would you pick?
Single Kiasi. Definitely.
Which artist or filmmaker would you love to work with?
Timothée Chalamet.
Jackson says what everyone else is thinking. How did you make him relatable and not just comic relief?
I created Jackson as someone who cannot read the room. His outspoken and unpredictable nature makes him hilariously out of touch. I drew inspiration from a primary school classmate I once observed and borrowed some of his traits.
Which line do you think fans will quote the most?
There is a scene where we throw an office party. Jackson introduces his cousin as the DJ. When Eve asks who he is, Jackson says, “He’s DJ Bang…gi… DJ Bangi.” I do not know why, but that scene stayed with me.
How does working in an ensemble cast sharpen you as an actor?
You experience different energies, just like in real life. No one stands alone. We all interact differently, and that teaches you diversity and adaptability.
What’s next for you?
I am really excited about MTV Shuga Mashariki season two, coming in early 2026.
Your go-to comfort snack after a long day on set?
Urban Bites.
Who breaks character the most during serious scenes?
Probably me.
Who has the most contagious laugh on set?
Ellah Maina. Her laugh sounds expensive. Like money.
Your guilty pleasure?
I rarely watch movies. I love story-driven action-adventure video games. Right now, it’s Uncharted: A Thief’s End.
If you could swap characters for a day, who would it be?
Eve. I would love to experience the world from her perspective.
One thing fans would be surprised to know about you?
I have a crippled left arm, which makes me low-key ambidextrous.
Watch Mathew Ngugi in Adam to Eve, now streaming on Showmax.
