Charles Ouda is a talented Kenyan actor, writer, director, singer, television host and voice over artist.
Born as Charles Joseph Onyango Ouda, he has been working professionally since 2002. Joseph Onyango Ouda, he has been working professionally since 2002.
Ouda has appeared in numerous films, television shows, and stage productions, including Makutano Junction, Discovery +254 and The First Grader.
He has also directed films like Who Are You? and Waiting Room.
Sadly, Ouda passed away on January 3, 2024, at the age of 38. He was engaged to Ciru Muriuki at the time of his death.
His work has been recognized with awards such as the World Media Award for education and the Kalasha International Award for Best Television Host.
Charles Ouda’s cause of death
At the time of publishing this article, it was reported that Ouda died by suicide.
According to sources privy to hia final moments, the renowned thespian excused himself to go for a smoke at the balcony and hanged himself by belt.
Cases of suicide in Kenya
According to recent reports, there has been an alarming rise in suicide cases in Kenya, with suicide mortality rates at 6.1 people in every 100,000, and men being in the highest risk category.
However, the quality of data is a major concern, as the country does not maintain a suicide registry, which is useful for identifying risk factors and developing strategies to reduce suicide.
The reasons for the increase in suicide cases have not been given by the Kenyan authorities, but a report published in June 2021 suggests that “suicides happen impulsively in moments of crisis with a breakdown in the ability to deal with life such as financial problems, relationship breakup or chronic pain and illness”.
In October 2023, several cases of suicide were reported in the media in Kenya, including a police officer who shot himself in his car, a woman who jumped off an office building, and a man who reportedly burned himself alive.
Kenya’s suicide rates mirror the high estimates for Africa, at 11.0 per 100,000 population.
Efforts to address the root causes of suicide in Kenya have often failed to address these root causes and instead including punitive measures.
Was Charles Ouda married?
Ouda was engaged to Ciru Muriuki, a former BBC journalist.
They were living together, and he had moved into her house after they got engaged.
Ciru is a well-known media personality in Kenya, and the couple’s engagement was announced in September 2023.
Following Ouda’s passing on February 3, 2024, a statement from the family urged everyone to respect the privacy of his fiancée Ciru and the Ouda family as they grieve this unfathomable loss.
The details of their relationship and the impact of Ouda’s death on Ciru have been kept private, and the family has requested space to grieve.
Who is Ciru Muriuki?
Ciru is a prominent Kenyan journalist, content creator, and senior presenter at BBC Africa.
She has worked for various media companies in Kenya as a radio and television host, including Capital FM.
Ciru is known for her insightful commentary on social and political issues, as well as her popular podcast, The Undiscovered, where she interviews inspiring and influential personalities from across the continent.
She is also a creative and influential content creator and podcaster and has a strong bond with her family.
Ciru is an experienced journalist with more than 7 years’ experience in TV, radio and digital media.
She is also known for her weight loss journey, which she has openly shared with her followers on social media.
Charles Ouda career
Ouda was a multifaceted Kenyan entertainer who made significant contributions to the film and television industry.
Over an illustrious career spanning more than 18 years, he showcased his talents as an actor, writer, director, TV host, voice-over artist and singer.
Ouda’s journey in the entertainment world commenced at the Kenya National Theatre, where he featured in Eric Wainaina’s Lwanda, Man of Stone.
Subsequently, he participated in numerous musicals with the Sterling Quality Entertainment Company Limited and was extensively involved with The Phoenix Players Kenya, where he not only performed in various plays but also undertook directorial responsibilities.
His artistic pursuits also led him to complete a 2-year conservatory at The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute.
Throughout his career, Ouda left an indelible mark on the industry, being recognized for his exceptional abilities with accolades such as the Best Director title at the 2016 Asian American Film Lab 72 Hour Shoot Out.
He was known for his involvement in diverse film projects, including Makutano Junction, The First Grader, Count It Out, The Know Zone, Changing Times, Mali, Second Family, Crime and Justice and Salem.
What will Charles Ouda be remembered for?
Ouda will be remembered for his exceptional talent, versatility, and enduring legacy in the entertainment industry.
His career spanned over two decades, during which he contributed to numerous film projects, including Makutano Junction, and The First Grader.
Others are Count It Out, The Know Zone, Changing Times, Mali Second Family, Crime and Justice and Salem.
Ouda’s contributions to the film industry were not limited to his acting skills; he was also a distinguished film director and scriptwriter.
His outstanding abilities earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious title of Best Director at the 2016 Asian American Film Lab 72 Hour Shoot Out.
Ouda’s enduring legacy, not only as a talented actor but as a beacon of positivity and inspiration, will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who knew him and admired his work.
As the arts community mourns the loss of one of its brightest stars, they also celebrate the life and contributions of Ouda.
FAQ
What was the cause of Charles Ouda’s death?
The cause of Ouda’s death has not been publicly disclosed.
Homicide detectives are reportedly investigating various possibilities, including suicide, but the exact cause of his death remains unknown.
What is Charles Ouda remembered for in the Kenyan entertainment industry?
He is remembered for his significant role in advancing Kenya’s cinematic scene.
His diverse career spanned across television, scriptwriting, documentaries, event management, theatre, and videography, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered by all who experienced his work.
What was the impact of Charles Ouda’s passing on the creative circles in Kenya?
His abrupt loss has sent ripples throughout the creative circles in Kenya.
The enigma of his cause of death has intensified the bereavement felt by many, adding a somber note to the mourning period.
What was the nature of the tribute released by Charles Ouda’s family?
The tribute released by his family captured the spirit of a man who was not just an accomplished actor, but also a beloved son, brother and friend.
It conveyed their deep loss and asked for respect for their privacy during this difficult time.
How did Charles Ouda’s fiancée, Ciru Muriuki, react to his passing?
The devastating news of Charles’ passing was shared by his family and fiancée, Ciru Muriuki, on February 4, 2024.
She, along with the Ouda family, appealed to everyone to give them space to grieve this unfathomable loss.
What were some of Charles Ouda’s notable film and television projects?
Charles Ouda was involved in various film and television projects, including “Makutano Junction,” “The First Grader,” “Count It Out,” “The Know Zone,” “Changing Times,” “Mali,” “Second Family,” “Crime and Justice” and “Salem.”
What was the significance of Charles Ouda’s engagement to Ciru Muriuki?
Ouda was engaged to Ciru, a former BBC journalist.
Their engagement was announced in September 2023, and he had moved into her house after they got engaged.
How did Charles Ouda’s passing impact the Kenyan arts community?
The news of Ouda’s passing sent shockwaves through the Kenyan arts community, with tributes pouring in from fans and colleagues.
His legacy and the impact of his work will continue to inspire and influence future generations of actors and filmmakers in Kenya and beyond.
What were some of the accolades and achievements of Charles Ouda in the entertainment industry?
Ouda was recognized for his exceptional abilities with accolades such as the Best Director title at the 2016 Asian American Film Lab 72 Hour Shoot Out.
What were some of the challenges Charles Ouda faced in his personal life?
He had been battling alcoholism before his passing, shedding light on the personal challenges he confronted.