Habida Moloney made a name for herself in Kenya with her MAMAs-winning hit “Sunshine” back in the early 2000s before transitioning into what she now refers to as her “first love”; acting.
One of her most popular roles was on the Kenyan soap opera ‘Zari’.
Now, the mother of two has taken on the bold and feisty role of Lorna in Showmax’s adult drama, 4Play.
In this exclusive, she discusses her role and what its like to play the fiery Lorna.
You had throat surgery earlier this year. How has the recovery journey been for you?
After my throat surgery, I feared that I would lose my voice permanently. I remember I couldn’t speak for two weeks, and this was scary for me.
As someone who relies on their voice, the thought of losing it was unimaginable.
But I pushed through therapy, and it was emotional when I could finally speak again.
Getting back on set with ‘4Play’ felt like reclaiming a part of myself. I could finally be in my element, doing what I love most, even if it meant long hours and little sleep.
This is your Showmax debut. What were your initial reactions when you got the call?
When I got the call, I was ecstatic. Acting is my first love. Acting is one thing I’d wake up at 4 a.m. for and go all day without a break, just for the thrill of it.
How do you manage to be a successful singer, actress, gym enthusiast, and mother of two? Any tips?
Balance? (laughs) I’ll be honest—I don’t have it. I’m always tired. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s to be kind to myself.
I remind myself that if one thing falls apart, it’s okay; I’ll get back to it when I can. My day starts early with my kids, packing their lunches, and then I head to the gym.
The rest of my day is a mix of meetings, media tours, and business dinners, and by midnight, I’m catching up on work at home. Somehow, we make it all work, but “balance” is still a distant dream.
Tell us one hilarious moment you had with your on-set husband, Michael aka Bilal Wanjau.
There was a scene where Lorna finds Michael in a compromising position—trust me, it was hard to keep a straight face! And don’t get me started on the intimate scenes where he was supposed to get on top, but he couldn’t and so I had to take charge instead.
The entire crew was laughing, and it’s these lighthearted moments that make working on 4play so memorable.
Just like Lorna, you are a fashion girl yourself. What is your personal style?
It really depends. Some days, I’m all about comfort—jeans, a classic top, and maybe a pair of heels.
Other days, it’s all about making a statement in a short dress. Lorna has a sophisticated style, which I love bringing out on screen, but my personal style is a bit more laid-back.
Fun fact about you that your fans might not know?
I love lifting weights. I used to compete in powerlifting, and I’m proud to say I can bench 60 kg and 90 kg deadlift.
Lifting has always been my way to stay strong, both mentally and physically, and it’s something I still enjoy when I’m not on set. I am trying to get into polo as well.
Favorite meal?
Thai food any day. I also love some ugali mayai.
How do you unwind after a long day on set?
A glass of wine and some dairy milk chocolate as I watch my favorite movie or show.
