Actress JACKY VIKE opens up on how playing AWINJA changed how people view her - “They can’t differentiate acting and real life”

Wednesday, April 01, 2026 - Celebrated Kenyan actress, comedian, and digital content creator, Jacky Vike, best known for her unforgettable portrayal of Awinja in Papa Shirandula, has revealed how the character continues to shape how people perceive her off-screen.

Speaking on a local podcast, she admitted that many fans still identify her more with Awinja than with her real personality.

“Ukikutana na wasee wengi, wenye wame watch Nairobi Half Life wataniambia, Awinja, mimi nakupenda sana lakini ile ya Nairobi Half Life, no,” she revealed.

Jacky explained that the expectations placed on her often mirror Awinja’s traits - loud, naive and a rumour monger.

“Now you see, they can’t differentiate acting and real life. So watu wengi wanajua tu Awinja,” she said, noting how this image influences her daily interactions.

She also reflected warmly on her time working with the late Papa Shirandula, describing him as a mentor and father figure.

“He was my mentor. It was such an amazing experience, I learnt so much from him,” she said.

Their bond, she added, went beyond the set, evolving into a family-like relationship that continues to inspire her journey.

“That is why when we lost him, ili tu affect sana. It got to a point where we were a family, we were part of each other,” Jacky explained.

Grateful for the lessons, Jacky Vike remains determined to live authentically - beyond the shadow of Awinja.

The Kenyan DAILY POST