From Shy Kid to Leading Man in Kenyan Entertainment
Fidel Maithya, a renowned Kenyan actor, radio and TV presenter, sports analyst, and independent producer, has captivated audiences both on and off the screen. Currently starring in Citizen TV’s hit series Neema, Fidel’s journey from a shy boy to a successful actor is nothing short of inspiring. His career, passion for basketball, and thoughtful approach to relationships have made him a household name in Kenya’s entertainment scene.
Growing up, Fidel wasn’t always the confident man we see on TV today. He was once a shy child, unsure of his path. But everything changed when he discovered acting. His love for performing came quite accidentally during his primary school days, where he was cast in a play. What began as a simple role sparked a lifelong passion for acting and storytelling.
From a young age, Fidel was influenced by the world of cinema and television. His parents played a significant role in nurturing his interest in film. Weekend trips to the cinema with his family left a lasting impression on him. His mother, who worked as a video editor at the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), further fueled his dream of working in the entertainment industry.
His first attempt at entering the industry, however, didn’t go as planned. Fidel auditioned for a cigarette commercial, but he wasn’t selected due to his young and skinny appearance. Although he didn’t land the role, the experience only motivated him to keep pursuing his dream.
Fidel’s breakthrough came with the highly popular TV series Selina. Before landing the role that made him a household name, he worked on a movie titled Vashita. His talent caught the eye of the casting director for Selina, who posted an open call on Facebook looking for someone to play Dr. Leshan, a prominent character on the show. Fidel auditioned, secured the part, and the rest is history.
The role of Dr. Leshan was a pivotal moment in Fidel’s career, propelling him into the spotlight. His performance was widely praised, and the role brought him much-needed recognition. Although the initial pressure of being in the public eye was daunting, Fidel embraced the challenge and soon became one of the most recognized faces in East Africa.
Before Selina, Fidel had also appeared in Monica, a show that follows the story of a young woman (played by Brenda Wairimu) chasing her dreams of climbing the social ladder. In Monica, Fidel played Bob Jiwe, the son of a governor, who finds himself entangled in a love triangle with the main character.
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In 2024, Fidel returned to the small screen with the lead role in Neema, a new series airing on Citizen TV. Produced by Jiffy Pictures, the show premiered in June 2024, replacing the popular show Becky. It quickly gained a following, captivating viewers with its compelling themes of love, betrayal, and personal struggle.
In Neema, Fidel plays Mark, a man caught between two women. On one side is Neema, a mother of two who has been abandoned by her husband, and on the other is Sharon, a woman determined to win Mark’s affection. This love triangle forms the heart of the drama, and Fidel’s portrayal of Mark has been praised for its depth and emotional complexity.
Fidel stars alongside Selestine Nyagah, who plays the titular character, Neema. The chemistry between the two has been a major highlight of the series, drawing viewers into the emotional whirlwind of their relationship. Neema airs weekdays at 7:30 PM and has quickly become one of the most-watched shows on Kenyan television.
Other Movies that Fidel features
In addition to Neema and Selina, Fidel has appeared in several other popular Kenyan shows and films. In the second season of Showmax’s Single Kiasi, he played Sintamei’s old friend, a role that added a new dimension to the series’ exploration of love and friendship in Nairobi. The show follows three women—Sintamei, Rebecca, and Mariah—as they navigate the complexities of relationships, all while maintaining their strong bond of friendship.
Fidel has also featured in other productions like Second Family, Crime and Justice, and Big Girl Small World. His versatility as an actor is evident in the wide range of roles he has taken on, from romantic leads to complex dramatic characters.
His life Outside Movies
Beyond acting, Fidel has a deep love for basketball. He played the sport actively and later transitioned into commentary and analysis. His role as a sports analyst on SuperSport allowed him to combine his love for basketball with his communication skills, providing viewers with insightful analysis and live commentary during games.
Fidel was also a part of the EFC (Entertainment Fraternity Club) basketball team, which brought together Kenyan celebrities, including musicians like Nonini. The team was involved in charitable activities and used basketball as a platform to impact lives positively.
In addition to his acting and presenting roles, Fidel is a skilled voice-over artist. His deep, commanding voice has made him a sought-after talent for commercials, narrations, and promotional work. He has used his voice for various brands, adding yet another dimension to his impressive portfolio in the media industry.
Fidel is also an independent producer, having worked on several imaging and commercial projects. His experience in front of the camera has given him unique insight into what makes a compelling production, and he has successfully transitioned into producing content that resonates with audiences.
Personal Life and Thoughts on Relationships
In a 2023 interview, Fidel opened up about his personal life, revealing that he is in a committed relationship, though he prefers to keep details about his partner private. While he hasn’t yet become a father, he shared his views on what it takes to maintain a healthy relationship. According to Fidel, the key to a successful partnership is for each person to be happy individually before coming together as a couple.
“I always preach this to people—be happy first, and hopefully, you meet someone who is happy too. That way, when you come together, you don’t depend on the other person to make you happy. If you bring emotional baggage into a relationship, it’s not going to work,” he shared.
Fidel is also careful about sharing personal aspects of his life on social media. He believes in protecting his relationship from public scrutiny, noting that not everyone on social media has good intentions. “I’m not too showy, and that’s how I grew up. Sometimes I even feel uncomfortable showing the little that I do, but it’s necessary. Not everyone on social media is looking out for you or happy with your success,” he explained.
Fidel Maithya’s journey from a shy kid with dreams of acting to one of Kenya’s most beloved actors is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and talent. From his breakout role in Selina to his current success in Neema, Fidel has continuously evolved as an actor, presenter, and producer. His passion for basketball, his thoughtful approach to relationships, and his desire to protect his personal life from the public eye make him a well-rounded and admired figure in Kenya’s entertainment industry. As he continues to grow in his career, fans can look forward to seeing more of his captivating performances on screen.
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