Celebrities pay tribute to the late actor Charles Ouda
The acting industry is in mourning following the sudden demise of acclaimed actor Charles Ouda, renowned for his portrayal of Principal Karani on the popular TV series Salem.
Ouda passed away on February 3 at the age of 38, leaving behind a legacy that has deeply impacted the entertainment world.
The devastating news was officially announced by Ouda’s family, who released a heartfelt statement paying tribute to the late actor.
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The statement read: “It is with great sadness that we have learned of the sudden passing of our friend and colleague Charles Ouda, who played Principal Karani on the Salem TV series. He brought talent and professionalism to our sets and has trained many of us.
We are still in shock. To his family and fiancée, our thoughts and prayers are with you every moment of the day and night. To our audience, his fans, the Salem cast and crew, and the film industry, let’s bow our heads in a moment of prayer for a hero, a role model, and a friend who has left us. May he rest in peace.”
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The news was further confirmed by Ouda’s older sister, Elizabeth Ouda, who expressed deep sorrow and appealed for privacy during this challenging time, particularly for Ouda’s fiancée, Ciru Muriuki.
Additional details about his passing will be shared with the public in due course.
Fellow actors and colleagues have shared their grief and condolences on social media:
Machachari actor Govi: Dear Charles, You are one of the best to ever set foot in this beautiful industry that we constantly put work in the TV and film industry. I first met you on the set of Makutano Junction back in 2005/2006. Our paths crossed again in 2022, shooting Pepeta. You blessed our characters with that workshop that truly changed how I view this craft. I saw you 2 weeks ago, not knowing it was the last time. Rest now, Uncle Charlie. You shall be missed dearly.
Kate Actress: “Gutted! We have lost one of the biggest TV/film stars of our time. Charlie! Why? My deepest condolences to your family and your loved ones, to my girl, @cirumuriuki, praying with and for you.”
Boniface Mwangi: “Charles Ouda’s death is a big blow to his family, Ciru and the acting fraternity. Ouda shone brightly on and off the stage. May he find rest, and eternal peace in the afterlife.”
Anto Neosoul: R.I.P Charles Ouda. My latest TV audition was made possible because of your kindness. What a blast we had touring the Netherlands, Belgium and Denmark in 2012 doing musical theatre. I’ll savour the memories. My sincere condolences to my “radio wife.”
Captain Otoyo: “I first met Charlie at Phoenix Players and reunited at Green Acres Limuru for Makutano Junction shortly after. This is very sad ila ni njia yetu sote. May Charles Ouda’s soul rest in peace. May his family find peace in this dark phase Inshallah.
Inna Lillahi wa Inna Illaihi Rajiun.”
ivynamu: “This is such terrible news; may he rest in peace.”
thekingkaka: “Charlie. Fly, my friend. Peace to the family.”
Also read: RIP: 10 Insights into the legacy of actor Charles Ouda in Kenyan Entertainment
shixkapienga: “Rest In Power, Charlie.”
phil_director: “Rest In Peace, Charlie, a true GIANT in Talent; this country will miss your Genius.”
A minute of silence for Charles Ouda at the #KitaleFilmWeek opening tonight. Rest well champ pic.twitter.com/On2Ix1qav8
— Jacktone Otieno (@jacktonegram) February 4, 2024
Aleckie Ronald: “Charles Ouda gave us the best cast for Pepeta, one of the best shows we have ever had in Kenya, was part of great shows like Makutano Junction and Better days, not forgetting the children’s show on Citizen called Know Zone, we have lost such a talent, may he rest well ❤️🕊️.”
Victor Otengo: “I saw Charles Ouda yesterday at the Salem party and he looked so full of life man! He was certainly the life of that party. What a sad day, the loss of an ultimate legend. May his soul rest in eternal peace. Condolences to his family and friends.”
The sudden loss of Charles Ouda has left an irreplaceable void in the entertainment industry, and tributes continue to pour in from fans, colleagues, and friends who remember him as a talented actor and a remarkable individual.
May he rest in peace.
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