Industry legends Jimmy Gathu, Sanaipei Tande, Mumbi Maina will star in new drama series, ‘The Chocolate Empire’, set to debut on March 20.
The new drama, dubbed “bolder and darker” by producer Grace Kahaki will also feature Kenyan rapper Xtatic in her debut role.
Giving insight about what to expect from the show and the casting of Jimmy Gathu, Insignia producer Ms Kahaki said they approached this production with care
“This is darker and bolder than anything we have done before. We love a challenge and are absolutely dedicated to elevating our craft. We approached this production with care because it’s important to tell stories authentically, so we spoke to people who live in these worlds.
“Jimmy Gathu was always JB in my mind. Having worked with him on Single Kiasi, I knew he could bring JB’s charm, menace, and complexity to life. Somehow, you root for JB, even when he is wrong.”
In addition to the industry heavyweights, the show also boasts a star cast that includes Kalasha nominee Jackie Kaboi (Single Kiasi), Escay Gitonga (Kam U Stay), Kael Njihia (Country Queens, Salem), Linda Tyagi, Michael Sanuri (Kiu), Angie Magio (Selina), Kennedy Musumba, Mwaniki Mageria (The Real Housewives of Nairobi), Aleks Kamau (Volume, Faithless), Amalie Chopetta (You Again), and Derek Bbanga (Big Girl Small World).
In addition to a supporting cast that includes Ivy Wanjiku (Sanura), Makena Kahuha (Subterranea), Palma Lumbasi (Borderline), fashion model turned actress Everlyne Kanane, Sharon Muriithi, and Mercy Kavulani as the “chocolates”.
Produced and directed alongside Phillippe Bresson, Ms Kahaki calls it “an incredible mix of fresh talent”.
“This is the biggest cast we ever worked with. We have produced and directed more than 10 TV shows, and the casting process for The Chocolate Empire was by far the longest. We knew what we wanted and didn’t settle until we got it. It is an incredible mix of fresh talent and industry legends – I’m completely in love with this cast.”
According to the show’s synopsis, The Chocolate Empire follows JB Mauzo, played by the multitalented Jimmy Gathu, a once-powerful businessman freshly released from prison. As JB works to rebuild his life and mend his fractured family, he secretly operates a high-end escort service from his exclusive cigar club.
His clandestine empire and personal life collide when he meets Lily played by Ann Muli – a young woman from a struggling family, who takes a job at JB’s club to help her mother make ends meet, unaware of the illegal operations taking place.
The series premieres March 20 on Showmax with new episodes every Thursday.
