Kenya Insights

Category: Entertainment

  • Drake’s Defamation Suit Against UMG Over Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’ Dismissed

    Drake’s Defamation Suit Against UMG Over Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’ Dismissed

    A federal judge in Manhattan on Thursday dismissed superstar rapper Drake’s defamation lawsuit over Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us” against Universal Music Group, which releases both artists’ music.

    U.S. District Judge Jeannette Vargas said Lamar’s lyrics accusing Drake of being a pedophile were not defamatory because they were “nonactionable opinion.”

    “Although the accusation that Plaintiff is a pedophile is certainly a serious one, the broader context of a heated rap battle, with incendiary language and offensive accusations hurled by both participants, would not incline the reasonable listener to believe that ‘Not Like Us’ imparts verifiable facts,” Vargas said.

    Attorneys for Drake and Lamar’s representatives did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the decision.

    UMG said it was pleased by the dismissal. “From the outset, this suit was an affront to all artists and their creative expression and never should have seen the light of day,” UMG said in a statement.

    The company said it looked forward to “continuing our work successfully promoting Drake’s music and investing in his career.”

    Lamar and Drake, whose given name is Aubrey Drake Graham, have been engaged in a long-running feud with several high-profile diss tracks against each other. Drake sued UMG in January based on its promotion of “Not Like Us,” arguing the song’s false accusation that the Canadian rapper is a pedophile put him and his family in danger.

    Music industry publications have said Drake did not sue Lamar directly because the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution offers strong protections for individual creative expression. Drake argued UMG was responsible for distributing and profiting from the song.

    “Not Like Us” won Grammy Awards in February for record and song of the year. It spent two weeks at the top of Billboard’s Hot 100 in 2024 and another week at No. 1 after Lamar performed it at this year’s Super Bowl halftime show.

    (Reuters)

  • Robert Burale Sues Alex Mwakideu and Ex-Wife for Sh20 Million Over Explosive YouTube Interview

    Robert Burale Sues Alex Mwakideu and Ex-Wife for Sh20 Million Over Explosive YouTube Interview

    A storm has hit Kenya’s entertainment and gospel circles after flamboyant city pastor and motivational speaker Robert Burale slapped Radio 47 presenter Alex Mwakideu and his ex-wife Rozina with a Sh20 million defamation suit over a viral YouTube interview that he says “tore his reputation to shreds.”

    In court papers filed at the Milimani Chief Magistrates’ Court, Burale claims the October 4, 2025 episode on Alex Mwakideu TV—dramatically titled “My Biggest Mistake Was Marrying Robert Burale”—was nothing short of a public execution of his character.

    Burale says the interview painted him as “manipulative, hypocritical, a swindler, and homosexual,” a cocktail of allegations he insists are pure lies, deliberately concocted to humiliate him before his followers and destroy his image as a man of God.

    “The remarks were malicious, reckless, and intended to assassinate my character,” Burale states in his affidavit, accusing Alex Mwakideu of acting more like a gossip peddler than a journalist.

    He adds that Mwakideu never reached out to verify the claims or give him a chance to respond before releasing the bombshell interview and then made matters worse by urging viewers to “share widely.”

    Burale says the damage was instant and devastating. His phone was flooded with calls, his social media pages trolled, and congregants left in shock. “It was a public lynching,” a source close to him told Kenya Insights, adding that the pastor was “deeply wounded” by the betrayal.

    The pastor now wants the court to order the removal of the video, compel a public apology, and award him Sh20 million in damages for emotional anguish, reputational harm, and loss of credibility.

    The case also cites a Radio 47 segment aired on October 7, where Mwakideu appeared to backtrack, claiming he was unaware of the full details of the interview before it went live — a statement Burale calls “an attempt to wash his hands after the damage was done.”

    Rozina and Alex Mwakideu have been named as the first and second defendants respectively. The case has been fast-tracked, but the two are yet to file their responses.

    The explosive lawsuit has lit up social media, with fans trading blame between the pulpit and the podcast. Some accuse Mwakideu of crossing the line for views, while others say Burale is trying to silence uncomfortable truths.

    As the court battle looms, all eyes are on Milimani — where the lines between faith, fame, and freedom of speech are about to be tested.

  • Oga Obinna Suspends Personal Acts of Kindness Following Shalkido Death Drama

    Oga Obinna Suspends Personal Acts of Kindness Following Shalkido Death Drama

    Popular comedian and media personality Oga Obinna has pulled the plug on all personal charitable assistance, citing relentless online attacks that have turned goodwill into a weapon for clout and engagement.

    The dramatic announcement, issued through Obinna TV Studios on Wednesday, comes barely 24 hours after the entertainer distanced himself from handling fundraising efforts for late Gengetone artiste Shalkido, who died following a hit-and-run accident along Thika Road.

    Shalkido had been riding his motorbike home from a show in Thika, where he had performed alongside Obinna, when tragedy struck.

    The accident sparked a social media firestorm, with netizens pointing fingers at Obinna simply because he was the last person seen with the artiste before the fatal crash.

    When Shalkido’s family appealed for help to clear a hospital bill of 147,000 shillings, Obinna made it clear he would not be managing the funeral fundraiser, though he committed to supporting the family’s appointed representative.

    “Personally, I am not going to be handling anything to do with the fundraising for the funeral. Nope. I know better. However, we will appoint someone from the family, and you guys will advise on the best way to go about it,” Obinna said in a video that sparked mixed reactions online.

    The statement from Obinna TV Studios speaks to deep frustration with how acts of kindness have been twisted into ammunition for online critics. “What began as genuine efforts to uplift those in need has been met with fabricated stories, malicious trolling, and profound ingratitude that seeks to destroy rather than appreciate,” management stated.

    The comedian’s decision has exposed the dark side of Kenya’s online generosity culture, where helping hands are often met with suspicion, blame, and weaponized narratives. Social media users had begun crafting wild theories about Shalkido’s death, with some suggesting Obinna bore responsibility despite the accident being a clear hit-and-run case.

    Content creator 2mbili, who visited Shalkido in the ICU before his death, painted a grim picture of the artiste’s final hours, describing tubes everywhere and blood coming from his ears. He had promised to pay Shalkido’s rent this month and had even helped fuel his motorbike days before the accident.

    Obinna’s management has drawn a hard line on what the entertainer will no longer do: respond to every request for assistance, submit to blackmail or public pressure, or take responsibility for life circumstances beyond his voluntary help. “He is simply an instrument, not the source of anyone’s breakthrough or success,” the statement clarified.

    Despite the suspension of personal interventions, Obinna TV Studios’ corporate social responsibility programs will continue as scheduled. The Obinna TV Foundation remains the only official channel for structured charitable work, while professional business engagements remain unaffected.

    In a warning shot to critics, management announced that legal action awaits anyone publishing unwarranted, unverified, or defamatory remarks. “We have tolerated baseless accusations long enough. Documentation is underway, and accountability will be pursued to the fullest extent of the law.”

    The development has sparked soul-searching among Kenyans about the sustainability of public generosity. One commenter, Prince Mwiti, captured the mood: “It is coming to a point where people will stop helping each other.” Another referenced content creator Baba Talisha, who similarly stepped back from public charitable work after facing criticism.

    The statement ended with a Biblical verse from Mark 9:43, suggesting a painful but necessary amputation: “If your hand causes you to stumble, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life maimed than with two hands to go into hell.”

    For Obinna, who has built a reputation as one of Kenya’s most generous entertainers, the decision marks a turning point. The man who once opened his doors and wallet to struggling artistes and content creators has now closed the tap, at least on a personal level, choosing structure over spontaneity, foundation work over individual appeals.

    Whether this suspension is temporary or permanent remains to be seen, but it sends a clear message: even the most generous spirit has its breaking point when gratitude gives way to grievance and kindness becomes a liability rather than a virtue.

    https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPlKNBsjBwC/?igsh=NnVmaXRrb3d4N283

  • Blankets & Wine Nairobi: When 20,000 Fans Paid for Live Music But Got a DJ Playlist Instead, Even Tems Couldn’t Save It

    Blankets & Wine Nairobi: When 20,000 Fans Paid for Live Music But Got a DJ Playlist Instead, Even Tems Couldn’t Save It

    So, Blankets & Wine rolled back into Nairobi last Saturday with all the fanfare of a carnival parade, promising an afternoon of sultry live performances, African excellence, and that signature picnic-chic vibe that’s kept this festival relevant for sixteen years.

    They brought out the big guns too—two-time Grammy winner Tems making her Kenyan debut, rising stars, and enough fashion statements to fill a Vogue editorial.

    Twenty thousand people showed up at Laureate Gardens in Kasarani, some dropping a cool Sh60,000 for the Hennessy terrace experience.

    The stage was set, the vibes were immaculate, and then… well, let’s just say the wheels came off the wagon in spectacular fashion.

    Here’s the tea: while everyone looked absolutely stunning in their cowboy hats, African print bags, and custom-fitted suits that screamed “I woke up like this” (but actually spent three hours getting ready), the actual music part of this music festival decided to play hide and seek.

    Fans found themselves stuck in what can only be described as purgatory between performances, listening to DJ sets that stretched on longer than a Nairobi traffic jam on Thika Road.

    You know it’s bad when people start wondering if they accidentally bought tickets to a very expensive outdoor club night instead of a live music festival.

    Victor and Larry, both first-timers at Blankets, didn’t mince their words.

    They came for Tems and Tems alone, and according to them, she was the only artist who justified the ticket price.

    Everything else? A magnificent letdown. “We could have stayed at the club for that,” Victor said, referring to the endless DJ music that filled the gaps where live performances should have been.

    Imagine paying premium prices for what you thought would be a feast, only to get served appetizers with three-hour waits between courses while someone plays Spotify in the background.

    The Igambam sisters, Joy and Joan, who’ve made Blankets their family tradition, summed up the collective frustration perfectly.

    They came dressed to the nines, ready for intimate, storytelling performances where you could sit on your picnic mat with wine in hand and let the music wash over you.

    Instead, they got what Joan described as “waiting hours for artistes,” which drained the energy faster than a phone battery at a festival with no charging stations.

    The vibe they’d come for—that magical blend of live music and communal joy—kept getting interrupted by intermissions so long you’d think the artists were stuck in Nairobi traffic themselves.

    Even Jay Macharia, a self-proclaimed Blankets veteran who hasn’t missed an edition since 2022, had complaints.

    Sure, he’s the guy who shows up in cowboy-meets-Japanese fusion fits with custom Afro-style bags, living for the fashion and live music equally. But even his enthusiasm couldn’t mask the obvious problems.

    Overpriced drinks? Check. Too few vendors? Check. Getting refreshments feeling like a side quest in a video game? Check, check, check.

    And this is coming from someone who saw Kendrick Lamar perform in Kigali and still believes in the Blankets vision.

    Now, let’s be clear: when Tems finally graced that stage, she brought the house down.

    The woman paused mid-performance to tell Nairobi, “This is the most enthusiastic welcome I have received anywhere in Africa.” Queen behavior, honestly.

    Her set was electric, her vocals were pristine, and for those glorious moments, everyone remembered why they’d parted with their hard-earned shillings.

    Joshua Baraka delivered smooth Afropop grooves, Toxic Lyrikali brought urban grit with his Swahili-dancehall fusion, and Chimano’s solo debut showcased why Sauti Sol became legends in the first place.

    But here’s the thing about hosting a festival: you can’t just rely on one or two artists to carry the entire event while everything else falls apart like a poorly baked cake.

    The organizational mishaps were glaring. Long delays between acts killed the momentum repeatedly.

    Stage management seemed to be operating on “Kenyan time” taken to its most extreme form.

    The balance between DJ sets and live performances was so skewed that attendees legitimately questioned whether they’d been scammed into attending a very elaborate house party.

    For a festival that’s positioned itself as one of East Africa’s premier live music platforms over sixteen years, this edition felt like a masterclass in how not to manage expectations.

    When your attendees are saying things like “only Tems was worth it” and “we could have stayed at the club,” you know something went terribly wrong.

    These weren’t casual fans looking for background music while they Instagram their outfits; these were people who came specifically for live performances and felt cheated when they got a DJ playlist with occasional live interruptions.

    The irony is almost poetic.

    Blankets & Wine has built its reputation on being more than just a concert—it’s supposed to be a lifestyle event where music, style, culture, and community converge.

    Saturday’s edition delivered spectacularly on the style and community fronts. The fashion was impeccable, the crowd was beautiful, and yes, people made memories.

    But when you strip away the aesthetics and the Instagram moments, what you’re left with is a music festival that failed to deliver on its core promise: consistent, quality live music.

    Perhaps the most damning indictment came from those who noted they’d paid installment plans just to afford tickets, only to feel that most of the lineup didn’t match the standard of the international act.

    When people are budgeting and planning financially to attend your event, you owe them more than long waits and DJ sets they could access for free on any streaming platform.

    So yes, Blankets & Wine looked gorgeous from the outside.

    The photos will be stunning, the fashion moments will live forever on social media, and Tems’ performance will be talked about for months.

    But strip away the pretty packaging, and what you had was a festival that asked fans to pay premium prices for a subpar experience, then wondered why they left frustrated despite the headline act delivering.

    The lesson here is simple: you can have all the vibes, all the style, and all the beautiful people in the world, but if you’re calling yourself a music festival, the music better show up and show up on time.

    Otherwise, you’re just throwing an expensive picnic with entertainment issues.

    And honey, at Sh5,000 a ticket, that’s not the tea anyone signed up to drink.

  • Music Mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Sentenced To More Than Four Years In Prison

    Music Mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Sentenced To More Than Four Years In Prison

    Sean “Diddy” Combs was sentenced to more than four years in prison Friday for prostitution-related crimes, capping a dramatic, all-day court hearing during which the music mogul apologized and begged for mercy.

    Prosecutors had sought 11 years behind bars for the 55-year-old Combs, but District Judge Arun Subramanian handed down a 50-month sentence and a $500,000 fine.

    Combs’s lawyers had urged the judge to sentence the hip-hop star to 14 months, which would effectively have been time served since he has been incarcerated in Brooklyn for more than a year.

    Combs was acquitted by a jury in July of the most serious charges against him — sex trafficking and racketeering — but convicted of two counts of transporting people across state lines for prostitution.

    The judge on Friday allowed the defense to present for hours on Combs’s behalf, during which the disgraced artist himself also gave an emotional address.

    At the end of it all, Subramanian had piercing words for Combs — and poignant ones for the victims who testified during Combs’s trial.

    “We heard you,” the judge said in his statement to the witnesses, who spoke in excruciating detail of prolonged, coercive and devastating abuse at the hands of Combs.

    “The number of people who you reached is incalculable,” he said in comments for Combs’s former partners, who were not present.

    “You stood up to power. It’s not easy.”

    Subramanian said he was bound by the law to deliver a sentence that met the gravity of Combs’s “serious offenses” which he said had “irreparably harmed two women.”

    “The court is not assured that if released these crimes will not be committed again.”

    But even Subramanian himself noted that the punishment he rendered was significantly shorter than the range probation officers had recommended, of 70 to 87 months.

    He told Combs he was counting on him to “make the most of your second chance.”

    Tearfully addressing the court before the judge handed down the sentence, Combs said he was “truly sorry” for his actions.

    “I ask your honor for mercy,” he said. “I beg your honor for mercy.”

    Combs apologized to his family as well as his victims, saying his behavior was “disgusting, shameful and sick.”

    “I was sick. Sick from the drugs. I was out of control. I needed help but I didn’t get the help.”

    – ‘Abuse and control’ –

    Combs’s former girlfriend Casandra Ventura submitted a letter to the judge asking him to consider “the many lives that Sean Combs has upended with his abuse and control.”

    Ventura, the 39-year-old singer known as Cassie, described in wrenching detail the physical, emotional and sexual abuse she suffered during a more than decade-long relationship with Combs.

    Ventura and another woman, identified as Jane, said they were coerced into performing so-called “freak offs”: sexual marathons with hired men that Combs directed and sometimes filmed.

    Ventura said she has nightmares and flashbacks “on a regular, everyday basis.”

    She told the judge she and her family had left the New York area for fear of retribution from Combs if he is released.

    In reaction to the sentencing, Ventura’s lawyer Douglas Wigdor commended the singer for her “bravery.”

    “While nothing can undo the trauma caused by Combs, the sentence imposed today recognizes the impact of the serious offenses he committed.”

    The defense team vowed to appeal, telling journalists outside the courthouse they felt the judge acted as a “13th juror” and that the sentencing was “unconstitutional.”

    – Next chapter –

    Prosecutor Christy Slavik, arguing for the 11-year sentence, said Combs had not accepted responsibility for his actions.

    “His remorse was qualified. It’s as though he thinks the law doesn’t apply to him,” Slavik said.

    And in arguing for a far lesser sentence, Nicole Westmoreland, one of Combs’s lawyers, called him an “inspiration” to the Black community and a social justice crusader.

    The judge recognized that accomplishment as well as Combs’s mammoth success in the entertainment business, and also acknowledged the hardship Combs’s additional incarceration would have on his family.

    During the proceedings Combs’s six adult children each delivered an emotional plea on their father’s behalf, with several of them dubbing him a “changed man.”

    “Please, please give our family the chance to heal together,” said one of his daughters, D’Lila Combs.

    “Not as headlines but as human beings.”

    Subramanian pointed out to Combs that his prison time was not lifelong.

    “You are going to get through this,” the judge said to him and his family.

    “You have a universe of people who love you,” he told Combs. “Let them lift you up now just as you have lifted them up for so many years.”

  • Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner Are Suing Sex Tape Ex-Star Ray J For Defamation

    Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner Are Suing Sex Tape Ex-Star Ray J For Defamation

    Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner sued R&B singer Ray J on Wednesday, alleging he defamed them when he claimed they were under a federal RICO investigation.

    The lawsuit alleges that Ray J has attempted to exploit the Kardashians’ fame ever since a “fleeting relationship” with Kim that ended 20 years ago.

    The suit alleges that Ray J first floated the idea that the Kardashians should be criminally investigated on a TMZ special in May, when he said that racketeering charges would be “appropriate.”

    He revisited the topic on a Sept. 24 livestream, when he said, “The federal RICO I’m about to drop on Kris and Kim is about to be crazy,” and “the feds is coming,” the lawsuit states.

    “Ray J’s public statements are blatantly false,” the lawsuit states. “No such federal investigation exists… Ray J’s conduct represents an egregious abuse of social media and public platforms to weaponize lies about nonexistent criminal investigations while fully aware that such allegations, even when baseless, carry the power to damage Plaintiffs’ livelihoods and hard-earned reputations.”

    Ray J and Kim Kardashian at the Roosevelt Hotel in Hollywood, California, on March 22, 2006.
    Ray J and Kim Kardashian at the Roosevelt Hotel in Hollywood, California, on March 22, 2006.

    The suit alleges that the recent comments fit a pattern of sensationalized and inflammatory comments from Ray J over the years.

    To qualify as defamation, Ray J’s statements would have to go beyond merely hostile opinions and instead assert a provably false statement.

    The suit alleges that Ray J’s comments on the livestream were intended as “factual assertions,” and not his speculation.

    In the complaint, he is quoted as saying “The feds is coming, there’s nothing I can do about it,” and “Anybody that is cool with Kim, they need to tell her now, the rain is coming, the feds is coming.”

    He also said, “It’s worse than Diddy,” referencing the federal trafficking and RICO charges against Sean “Diddy” Combs.

    His comments were picked up by TMZ. As a result, the lawsuit states, the Kardashians have “been at the center of a media storm speculating as to their alleged criminal behavior.”

    Kardashian and Jenner are represented by Alex Spiro, who has handled several other celebrity cases.

    “Kris Jenner and Kim Kardashian have never brought a defamation claim before nor have they been distracted by noise – but this false and serious allegation left no choice,” Spiro said.

  • Quiver Lounge Expands to Kisumu

    Quiver Lounge Expands to Kisumu

    Kisumu’s nightlife is about to get a major boost as Quiver Lounge and Grill, one of Nairobi’s most popular entertainment spots, prepares to open its doors in the lakeside city ahead of the December holidays.

    The franchise, which has already made a name with its high-end lounges in Nairobi and Kitengela, is eyeing Kisumu as the next frontier in its expansion drive.

    On Saturday morning, Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga held a meeting with Quiver Managing Director Peter Mbugua and his partners, who confirmed plans to set up the new branch.

    Wanga welcomed the investment, saying Kisumu has in recent years become a hotbed for hospitality and tourism ventures.

    “We are creating a conducive environment for investors, and Kisumu is now attracting major brands in entertainment, hotels, and lifestyle,” he said.

    Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga and Quiver Managing Director, Mr. Peter Mbugua.
    Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga and Quiver Managing Director, Mr. Peter Mbugua.

    The move is expected to create jobs for local youth, offer a fresh experience for party lovers, and inject millions into the city’s nightlife economy.

    For Kisumu residents and holidaymakers flocking the region during the festive season, Quiver’s arrival signals more vibrant nights, premium entertainment, and a touch of Nairobi’s clubbing culture at the heart of the lakeside city.

    With the new lounge set to launch just in time for Christmas and New Year celebrations, Kisumu’s entertainment scene is bracing for one of its biggest shakeups yet.

  • US Actress-singer Selena Gomez Weds Music Producer Benny Blanco

    US Actress-singer Selena Gomez Weds Music Producer Benny Blanco

    American actress and singer Selena Gomez married her boyfriend, music producer Benny Blanco, in a star-studded southern California wedding ceremony on Saturday.

    The “Only Murders in the Building” star posted a slideshow of pictures and videos on Instagram from the wedding, showing Gomez, 33, in a wedding dress and Blanco — real name Benjamin Joseph Levin — donning a tuxedo, with the couple seen in a variety of affectionate poses.

    The post is captioned “9.27.25” between two white emoji hearts, with Blanco commenting: “my wife in real life.”

    The ceremony was held in Santa Barbara County’s Hope Ranch, about 90 miles (145 kilometers) northwest of Los Angeles, according to Vogue Magazine.

    Among the 170 guests were US pop superstar — and longtime Gomez best friend — Taylor Swift, as well as British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran, socialite Paris Hilton, and Gomez’s “Only Murders” co-stars Steve Martin and Martin Short.

    The fashion magazine also reported the couple wore wedding outfits from Ralph Lauren.

    The high-profile couple went public with their relationship in December 2023, with the pair becoming engaged a year later, according to Vogue.

    Blanco, 37, had a hand in producing some of Gomez’s biggest chart hits, including 2015 singles “Same Old Love” and “Kill Em with Kindness.” The duo released a collaborative album, “I Said I Love You First,” in March.

  • Kenyan Socialite Azziad’s Sh25 Million Kileleshwa Home Faces Auction Over Mortgage Default

    Kenyan Socialite Azziad’s Sh25 Million Kileleshwa Home Faces Auction Over Mortgage Default

    Kenya’s “TikTok Queen” Azziad Nasenya is back in the headlines—only this time, it’s not about a viral dance challenge or brand endorsement deal, but about the looming loss of her luxurious Kileleshwa apartment to the auctioneer’s hammer.

    According to a notice by Okuku Agencies, Azziad’s Sh25 million home at the prestigious Platinum Oak Residency has been listed for public auction after she allegedly defaulted on her mortgage repayments.

    The plush high-rise apartment complex popular with Nairobi’s elite boasts 4- and 5-bedroom units complete with a gym, swimming pool, kids’ play area, CCTV security, borehole water, power backup, and ample parking.

    Bidders hoping to claim the media personality’s residence have been asked to deposit Sh100,000 for a bidding number, with the winner expected to pay 10 percent at the fall of the hammer and clear the balance within 90 days.

    Just a few years ago, Azziad was one of Kenya’s most bankable social media influencers.

    At the peak of her fame in 2020, a leaked rate card revealed she was pocketing as much as Sh100,000 per TikTok video, Sh50,000 per Instagram live, and Sh100,000 per Facebook post.

    Brands lined up for her services, with some paying Sh250,000 for monthly influencer packages. She was celebrated as the face of Kenya’s digital celebrity economy, commanding both admiration and envy.

    But the glamorous façade seems to have cracked. While the reasons for her alleged financial strain remain unclear, whispers of over-leveraging to maintain a high-end lifestyle have fueled speculation.

    For a star once seen as untouchable, the thought of her losing her home has sent shockwaves across social media, with fans expressing both sympathy and schadenfreude.

    Azziad has not publicly addressed the auction reports, leaving room for speculation on whether this is the beginning of a financial downfall or simply a temporary setback in her glittering career.

    For now, the countdown to the auction has begun—and all eyes are on whether Kenya’s most famous TikTok star will save her Kileleshwa palace, or watch it go to the highest bidder.

  • Bar Next Door, Kettle House, Quiver Lounge Among Popular Clubs Marked For NEMA Closure

    Bar Next Door, Kettle House, Quiver Lounge Among Popular Clubs Marked For NEMA Closure

    The National Environment Management Authority has issued closure orders to 107 entertainment establishments across the country, with popular Nairobi hotspots Bar Next Door, Kettle House, Quiver Lounge and Habanos Lounge among those facing the axe.

    The environmental watchdog issued the establishments with a seven-day ultimatum on Monday, September 22, to comply with licensing requirements or face immediate shutdown over persistent noise pollution complaints.

    In a public notice that has sent shockwaves through Kenya’s nightlife industry, NEMA cited an avalanche of public complaints about excessive noise from clubs, lounges, bars and restaurants as the driving force behind the crackdown.

    “NEMA has been receiving public noise pollution complaints from the public regarding clubs/lounges, bars and restaurants across the country,” the authority stated in the notice dated September 8.

    The directive, issued under Section 101 of the Environmental Management and Coordination Act, requires the targeted facilities to submit comprehensive documentation including certificates of incorporation, Environmental Impact Assessment licenses, current Environmental Audits, and detailed noise pollution control measures.

    Among the high-profile establishments caught in NEMA’s dragnet are some of Nairobi’s most popular entertainment venues.

    The list includes Jambo Lounge, Cool Breeze Bar in Ruiru, Havana Lounge along Northern Bypass, Quiver Lounge in Eastlands, Kettle House, Ibiza Club and Paris Club.

    Several upmarket hotels have also been flagged, including Clarion Hotel in Westlands and Eclipse Lounge located in Tatu City, Kiambu County.

    The crackdown comes barely six months after NEMA ordered the immediate closure of Habanos Lounge along the Northern Bypass in April over persistent noise pollution, signaling the authority’s escalating war against establishments flouting environmental regulations.

    The affected businesses have until September 29 to furnish NEMA with the required documentation at the authority’s Nairobi headquarters. Failure to comply will trigger enforcement actions, including permanent closure.

    NEMA warned that establishments must provide essential environmental compliance documents or face shutdown, underscoring the seriousness of the directive.

    The documentation required includes certificate of incorporation and list of Directors/owners, Environmental Impact Assessment License for the facility, current Environmental Audit, noise pollution control measures in place, and reasons why legal action or closure should not be taken against the facility.

    The sweeping action represents one of NEMA’s most comprehensive enforcement drives against the entertainment industry, with establishments spanning from high-end venues to neighborhood bars feeling the heat.

    The move follows numerous complaints from the public about loud music from clubs, lounges, bars, and restaurants, particularly those operating in residential areas where nightlife has increasingly encroached.

    The timing of the crackdown aligns with Kenya’s preparations for World Cleanup Day 2025, as NEMA intensifies efforts to combat various forms of environmental pollution beyond just waste management.

    Business operators now face a race against time to compile and submit the required documentation, with the authority making it clear that no extensions will be granted beyond the September 29 deadline.

    The entertainment industry, already grappling with post-pandemic recovery challenges, now faces fresh uncertainty as venue owners scramble to demonstrate compliance with environmental regulations or risk losing their licenses entirely.

  • Jimmy Kimmel Show To Return Tuesday

    Jimmy Kimmel Show To Return Tuesday

    Jimmy Kimmel’s late night talk show, which was abruptly pulled from the air last week after the US government threatened broadcasters, will be back on Tuesday, Disney announced Monday.

    The sudden suspension by ABC, which is owned by Disney, came after conservative complaints about comments Kimmel had made in the wake of the shooting of Christian activist Charlie Kirk.

    “Last Wednesday, we made the decision to suspend production on the show to avoid further inflaming a tense situation at an emotional moment for our country,” said a company statement.

    “It is a decision we made because we felt some of the comments were ill-timed and thus insensitive.

    “We have spent the last days having thoughtful conversations with Jimmy, and after those conversations, we reached the decision to return the show on Tuesday.”

    Kimmel’s abrupt disappearance from the airwaves, apparently after government pressure on broadcasters who distribute ABC, sparked fury in liberal America, with opponents saying Kimmel had been targeted because he is a frequent critic of President Donald Trump.

    Trump had celebrated Kimmel’s removal, calling it “Great News for America.”

    Opponents saw it as the latest step in creeping government control of free speech, which is an article of faith for many Americans as well as a right enshrined in the country’s constitution.

    Some on the political right were also uneasy, including people who regularly count themselves as Trump allies, like Ted Cruz, the conservative senator from Texas, and firebrand broadcaster Tucker Carlson.

    Trump has repeatedly complained about negative media coverage of him, and last week said he thought it was “illegal.”

    – FCC threat –

    The Kimmel episode unfolded a week after Kirk, a close Trump ally, was shot dead on a Utah university campus, setting off a bitter battle over responsibility in deeply polarized America, with conservatives — including Trump — blaming “the radical left.”

    Authorities have charged 22-year-old Tyler Robinson and have not indicated they are looking for anyone else.

    In his show-opening monologue last Monday, Kimmel said “the MAGA gang” was “desperately trying to characterize this kid… as anything other than one of them.”

    He then showed footage of Trump pivoting from a question about how he had been affected by Kirk’s death to boasting about the new ballroom he is building at the White House, prompting laughter from the studio audience.

    “This is not how an adult grieves the murder of somebody called a friend. This is how a four-year-old mourns a goldfish,” Kimmel said.

    Two days later, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr threatened the licenses of ABC affiliates that broadcast Kimmel’s show.

    “I think it’s past time these (affiliates) themselves push back… and say, ‘Listen, we’re not going to run Kimmel anymore until you straighten this out, because we’re running the possibility of license revocation from the FCC,’” he told right-wing podcaster Benny Johnson.

    Nexstar — one of the country’s biggest owners of ABC affiliate stations, which is in the middle of a multi-billion-dollar merger requiring FCC approval — then announced it would be removing the show from its stations.

    Sinclair, another media group that also yanked the show, said Monday it would not return it to the airwaves, despite Disney’s announcement.

    “Sinclair will be preempting Jimmy Kimmel Live! across our ABC affiliate stations and replacing it with news programming,” the company said on social media, using an industry term for removing a show.

    “Discussions with ABC are ongoing as we evaluate the show’s potential return.”

    – Hollywood stars –

    Before Disney’s about-face was announced on Monday, a constellation of Hollywood stars signed an open letter calling the decision to pull the show “a dark moment for freedom of speech in our nation (that is) unconstitutional and un-American.”

    “The government is threatening private companies and individuals that the President disagrees with. We can’t let this threat to our freedom of speech go unanswered,” said the letter by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).

    Signatories to the letter included Marvel star Pedro Pascal, Tom Hanks, Jennifer Aniston, Meryl Streep and Robert De Niro.

    After Monday’s announcement the ACLU welcomed the news, saying: “ABC made the right call.”

    (AFP)

  • ‘Jesus, Take The Wheel’ Songwriter Brett James Dies In US Plane Crash

    ‘Jesus, Take The Wheel’ Songwriter Brett James Dies In US Plane Crash

    Grammy-winning songwriter Brett James, best known for co-writing the 2005 hit song Jesus Take the Wheel, has died in a plane crash in North Carolina.

    James, 57, was one of the three people aboard a single-engine Cirrus SR22T when it went down “under unknown circumstances in a wooded area”.

    All three passengers were killed in the crash, which occurred near Macon County Airport, authorities said. Flight tracking data shows the plane took off from an airport in Nashville.

    James earned a Grammy Award for Best Country Song for Jesus, Take the Wheel, recorded by Carrie Underwood. Reacting to the news, Underwood called his death “just unfathomable”.

    The song, which also received a nomination for Song of the Year, became a defining hit of both their careers.

    “Brett was the epitome of ‘cool’,” Underwood said. “My favourite songs to sing of ours are the ones that he or we wrote about Jesus because the thoughts and feelings behind them are so genuine and pure. I won’t ever sing one note of them again without thinking of him. Brett’s passing is leaving a hole in all of us that I fear won’t ever go away.”

    James also penned songs for a wide range of artists, including Taylor Swift, Kelly Clarkson, Bon Jovi, and Jason Aldean. Aldean, who recorded The Truth, written by James, said he was “heartbroken”.

    “I had nothing but love and respect for that guy, and he helped change my life. Honoured to have met him and worked with him. Thoughts and prayers going out to his family,” Aldean said.

    Paul Williams, president of the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), praised James as “a songwriting force of nature”, noting that he wrote more than 500 songs across genres.

    “He wrote big hits but had an even bigger heart,” Williams said.

    James was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020 and won the ASCAP Songwriter of the Year in 2006 and 2010.

    The National Transportation Safety Board, which investigates air accidents, will lead a probe into the crash.

  • ‪Jimmy Kimmel Show Off Air ‘Indefinitely’ After Charlie Kirk Comments ‬

    ‪Jimmy Kimmel Show Off Air ‘Indefinitely’ After Charlie Kirk Comments ‬

    Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show was pulled from the air Wednesday hours after the US government threatened to cancel broadcasting licenses because of comments the host made about the killing of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk.

    The stunning move by network ABC to remove one of America’s most influential late-night shows was blasted by critics as government censorship, but celebrated by Donald Trump, who has long chaffed at the comedians who mock him.

    “Great News for America,” he wrote on his Truth Social page.

    “Congratulations to ABC for finally having the courage to do what had to be done.”

    Trump, who also rejoiced in July at the cancellation of Kimmel’s fellow late-night satirist Stephen Colbert, then urged that two other comedians be removed.

    “That leaves Jimmy (Fallon) and Seth (Meyers), two total losers, on Fake News NBC. Their ratings are also horrible. Do it NBC!!!”

    In Hollywood, where Kimmel’s show is recorded, audience members were turned away at the door before taping began Wednesday.

    Tommy Williams, a longshoreman from Florida, told AFP the move felt un-American.

    “Any show that’s on TV that speaks out against Donald Trump, he’s trying to shut down,” the 51-year-old said.

    “We’re losing our freedom of speech. This is something that happens in Russia and North Korea and China, state-run TVs stuff.”

    – FCC threat –

    The furor comes a week after Kirk, a close Trump ally, was shot dead on a Utah university campus, setting off a bitter battle over responsibility in deeply polarized America, with conservatives — including Trump — blaming “the radical left.”

    Authorities this week said 22-year-old Tyler Robinson was the lone gunman, and brought a murder charge against him.

    On Monday, Kimmel spoke about the shooting in his show-opening monologue.

    “The MAGA gang (is) desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and (doing) everything they can to score political points from it,” said Kimmel, referring to the president’s “Make America Great Again” movement.

    He then showed footage of Trump pivoting from a question about how he had been affected by Kirk’s death to boasting about the new ballroom he is building at the White House, prompting laughter from the studio audience.

    “This is not how an adult grieves the murder of somebody called a friend. This is how a four-year-old mourns a goldfish,” said Kimmel.

    On Wednesday, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr openly threatened the license of ABC affiliates who broadcast Kimmel’s show.

    “I think it’s past time these (affiliates) themselves push back… and say, ‘Listen, we’re not going to run Kimmel anymore until you straighten this out because we’re running the possibility of license revocation from the FCC,’” he told right-wing podcaster Benny Johnson.

    “We can do this the easy way or the hard way. These companies can find ways to change conduct and take action, frankly, on Kimmel or there’s going to be additional work for the FCC ahead.”

    Hours later, Nexstar, one of the country’s biggest owners of ABC affiliate stations, announced it would be removing the show from its stations.

    Nexstar is in the middle of a multi-billion dollar merger with a rival that will require FCC approval.

    ABC — which is owned by Disney — then followed suit, pulling the show nationwide.

    Kimmel did not immediately comment, and representatives for the entertainer did not respond to AFP queries.

    – ‘They are censoring you’ –

    The White House has fired several broadsides against cultural institutions it views as hostile to Trump’s brand of right-wing nationalism.

    Law firms, universities and the media have all been targeted, including with lawsuits that legal experts say are meritless, but which nevertheless have resulted in huge payments.

    ABC and Paramount-owned CBS have both coughed up.

    The settlements — which are to be paid to Trump’s future presidential library — were seen as being motivated by the desire of the news organizations’ parent companies to stay in Trump’s good graces.

    Democrats were quick to connect the dots on Wednesday.

    “President Trump and FCC Chair Carr made it clear: fall in line or be silenced,” US Senator Ben Ray Lujan posted on X.

    “Buying and controlling media platforms. Firing commentators. Canceling shows. These aren’t coincidences. It’s coordinated. And it’s dangerous,” wrote California Governor Gavin Newsom.

    “They are censoring you in real time.”

    (AFP)

  • Notorious ‘Tinder Swindler’ Simon Leviev is Detained in Georgia

    Notorious ‘Tinder Swindler’ Simon Leviev is Detained in Georgia

    The notorious ‘Tinder Swindler’ was arrested by Georgian authorities on Sunday, officials in the former Soviet state said today.

    Shimon Yehuda Hayut, 35, from Israel, was detained after landing at Batumi International airport.

  • Giorgio Armani To Be Laid To Rest In Private Funeral

    Giorgio Armani To Be Laid To Rest In Private Funeral

    RIVALTA, Italy, Sept 8 (Reuters) – Family and close friends were set to gather in a private funeral on Monday for Giorgio Armani, the legendary Italian fashion designer who died last week at the age of 91.

    Armani will be laid to rest next to his parents and older brother in a family chapel in Rivalta, a village about 100 km (62 miles) south-east of Milan and near the city where he was born, Piacenza.

    In a mark of respect, Armani stores will close in the afternoon.

    “We will say goodbye to him as a family and then move forward as he would have wanted. Everything is ready to remember him with his fashion,” his partner Pantaleo Dell’Orco was quoted as saying by Corriere della Sera daily.

    Right up to his death, Armani was working on a retrospective exhibition and a fashion show to celebrate 50 years of being in business, during Milan Fashion Week in late September. His company has to date not announced any changes to the programme.

    The designer’s death was announced on Thursday, sparking an outpouring of international grief, with tributes flowing in from Hollywood stars, sporting champions, business and political leaders and ordinary people.
    Over the weekend, thousands came to pay their respects to the man known as “Re Giorgio” (King Giorgio) as his wooden casket, adorned with white roses, was put on display at Armani’s headquarters in Milan.

    “I feel very saddened, because he was a man of great style who, of course, has left an indelible mark… We are definitely losing a great, truly great talent”, Milan resident Alessandra Torchio said on Monday.

    Armani died after a five-decade career in which he built a business empire spanning haute couture to home furnishing, with his name becoming synonymous with elegant simplicity.

    He had no children but worked with a trusted group of family members and long-term confidants who are expected to carry on running the business over which he exercised tight control.
  • ‘Nicest judge in The World’ Frank Caprio Dies Aged 88

    ‘Nicest judge in The World’ Frank Caprio Dies Aged 88

    US celebrity judge and social media star Frank Caprio has died aged 88, his family has said.

    His death following a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer was announced on his official Instagram account, where he was remembered for his “warmth” and “unwavering belief in the goodness of people”.

    David Caprio, his son, thanked fans for their love and support and urged people to “spread a little kindness” in his father’s memory.

    Beloved for his compassion and humour in the courtroom, videos of Judge Caprio presiding over cases on his hit show Caught in Providence have had billions of views on social media, earning him the title the “nicest judge in the world”.

    In an the Instagram statement to his 3.4 million followers, Judge Caprio was remembered for the “countless acts of kindness he inspired”.

    “His warmth, humour, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him,” the statement said.

    Judge Caprio had presided over thousands of cases in his hometown of Providence, Rhode Island before embarking on a TV career.

    The company behind Caught in Providence, Debmar-Mercury, paid tribute to Judge Caprio’s “unique brand of compassion and common sense approach”.

    “We will miss him dearly,” co-presidents Mort Marcus and Ira Bernstein said in a statement.

    During its run, Caught in Providence was nominated for three Daytime Emmys, with Judge Caprio earning two of his own nominations last year.

    His signature courtroom style produced viral clips ranging from him inviting children to sit with him behind the bench during cases, to announcing a “mini-judge” plushie of himself.

    A TikTok video showcasing his morning routine – brushing his teeth, signing his book and watching videos of his own show – has had more than 5m views.

    In an 2019 interview, Judge Caprio said his courtroom proceedings “show a slice of life of Rhode Island that is very interesting, and it reflects the same issues people are experiencing nationwide”.

    After being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2023, Judge Caprio said he was “fully prepared to fight as hard I can” and thanked followers for their support.

    In one of his last social media posts, Judge Caprio announced he was back in hospital after suffering a “setback” in his treatment and asked his followers for their prayers.

    Judge Caprio is survived by his wife, Joyce Caprio, of almost 60 years, their five children, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

  • Popular Reggae Hype Man MC Fullstop Dies At 48 After Battle With TB

    Popular Reggae Hype Man MC Fullstop Dies At 48 After Battle With TB

    The unmistakable rasp that once electrified dancehalls across Kenya has fallen silent. MC Fullstop, born John Maina, died yesterday at 48 after a courageous three-year battle with tuberculosis, leaving behind a legacy that transformed the country’s reggae scene forever.

    For over three decades, that raw, unfiltered voice was the heartbeat of Kenyan reggae. When Fullstop grabbed the microphone, magic happened. From Githurai’s dusty streets to Westlands’ vibrant clubs, his patois-infused chants and spontaneous freestyles didn’t just move crowds—they created movements.

    John Maina discovered his calling at just 14 in the early 1990s underground reggae scene. What began as teenage passion evolved into something transcendent. He earned the moniker MC Fullstop because when he took the mic, everyone else became irrelevant. By the 2000s, he had become the voice of a generation, dominating airwaves on Kiss FM, Citizen TV, K24 TV, and NRG Radio alongside pioneers like DJ Smash.

    Fullstop didn’t just hype crowds; he bridged cultures, bringing authentic Jamaican reggae to Kenya while infusing it with distinctly local flavor. His energy was infectious, his presence magnetic, and his impact immeasurable on countless artists who followed in his footsteps.

    The beginning of the end came in 2021 when tuberculosis collapsed his left lung. The disease that would ultimately claim his life began its cruel assault on the very instrument that made him famous—his voice. In 2022, throat tuberculosis delivered another devastating blow, reducing the man who once commanded thousands to barely a whisper.

    Yet true to his name, Fullstop refused to be silenced. He continued performing even as breathing became a struggle and simple conversations required tremendous effort. Rumors of his death circulated, but his warrior spirit endured.

    In June 2023, he stunned the reggae community with a surprise return to NRG Radio. Frail and breathing heavily, his voice thin as paper, he still showed up. It wasn’t just an interview—it was a testament to unbreakable will. Fans wept listening to their hero struggle through words that once flowed like music, but Fullstop spoke with the same dignity that defined his career.

    As his condition worsened, the harsh realities of the entertainment industry became apparent. Gigs dried up when he could no longer deliver the high-energy performances that made him legendary. The same venues that once packed to capacity fell silent when he needed support most. Yet Fullstop never complained publicly, maintaining his grace even as he battled for each breath.

    His final social media post on July 30 showed a man still connected to his fans, still radiating the positive energy that defined his existence. On August 1, 2025, that struggle ended, and the voice that soundtracked countless nights finally found peace.

    MC Fullstop leaves behind more than memories—he leaves a cultural legacy. He proved that hype men could be artists, that authenticity trumped polish, and that genuine passion could move souls more than any manufactured excitement. Tonight, as DJs spin the riddims he once blessed with his voice, something irreplaceable will be missing from Kenya’s reggae scene.

    The mic is silent, but the movement continues. In every reggae heart that beats in Kenya, MC Fullstop’s energy lives on, ensuring that while his voice may be gone, his spirit will dance forever in the riddims he loved so much.

    Rest in power, MC Fullstop. The voice is silent, but the legacy echoes eternal.

  • Kenyans React After VJ Patelo Reveals His Wedding Cost Sh500 Million

    Kenyans React After VJ Patelo Reveals His Wedding Cost Sh500 Million

    The street-meets-luxury ceremony has divided the internet, with some calling it iconic while others brand it chaotic

    Arbantone artist VJ Patelo and his bride Diana have become the hottest topic across Kenyan social media platforms after their weekend wedding turned into what many are calling the most talked-about ceremony of 2025.

    But it wasn’t just the lavish affair that caught attention, it was Patelo’s jaw-dropping revelation that the entire celebration cost a staggering Sh500 million.

    The wedding, held at the picturesque Naiposha Gardens in Limuru on Saturday, July 26, was anything but conventional.

    The ceremony has since gone viral, with many Kenyans taking to social media to weigh in on the spectacle, from praising the authenticity and vibe to debating whether the rowdy style matched the occasion.

    Speaking candidly during a Monday interview with Oga Obinna, Patelo didn’t hold back when revealing the wedding’s eye-watering price tag.

    The breakdown of expenses reads like a luxury shopping spree gone wild: Diana’s wedding dress, imported directly from Dubai, cost Sh1.6 million, while Patelo’s suit came with a Sh1.7 million price tag. Even more extravagant was the Sh2.2 million spent on outfitting his ten groomsmen, nicknamed the “Wepesi Gang.”

    The couple didn’t stop at attire.

    Their wedding rings alone cost Sh1.5 million, with both sporting gold bands that gleamed as bright as their personalities. Even the cake was a statement piece – imported from Dubai and far from your typical wedding confection.

    What truly set tongues wagging was the unconventional nature of the celebration.

    It felt less like a formal wedding and more like a spontaneous music video shoot, only it was real life, and the internet could not get enough.

    Videos circulating online show the visibly intoxicated groom walking down the aisle adorned with multiple silver chains, flanked by his parents and followed by his street-styled entourage.

    The bride, Diana, seemed unfazed by the unconventional proceedings, revealing her attraction to Patelo’s “bad-boy personality” during interviews. Dressed in a sweeping Cinderella-style gown that provided a stark contrast to the street fashion surrounding her, she appeared genuinely happy throughout the festivities.

    Social media erupted with memes and commentary, with fans calling it the most Kenyan wedding ever – a perfect mix of luxury, humor, and unapologetic fun.

    The hashtag #VJPateloWedding trended nationwide as clips of the groom’s limo antics and the bride’s dramatic cake-cutting moment went viral.

    The reactions have been as diverse as Kenya itself. While some celebrate the couple for breaking traditional wedding norms and staying true to their street roots, others question whether the spectacle was appropriate for such a sacred occasion.

    Kenyans flooded social media with a wide range of reactions, with many calling it the wildest and most entertaining wedding they have seen.

    The term “Wepesi” – Patelo’s signature slang has now become synonymous with the wedding’s energy, with the energetic entourage of Nairobi youths turning the high-end event into a vibrant display of street culture and loyalty.

    Despite the mixed reactions, one thing remains clear: VJ Patelo and Diana’s wedding has successfully captured the nation’s attention, sparking conversations about tradition, authenticity, and the evolution of Kenyan wedding culture.

    Whether you loved it or loathed it, the Sh500 million celebration has undeniably made its mark on Kenya’s entertainment landscape.

    As the couple themselves declared in their vows, “Nothing can make us break up, even death cannot” – a statement that seems to extend to their resolve in the face of public scrutiny.

    Love it or hate it, VJ Patelo’s wedding has proven that sometimes, the most memorable celebrations are the ones that dare to be different.

  • Top Boy Actor Micheal Ward Charged With Rape

    Top Boy Actor Micheal Ward Charged With Rape

    Bafta-winning actor Micheal Ward, known for roles in shows and films including Top Boy, Small Axe and Blue Story, has been charged with rape.

    Mr Ward, 27, of Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, is charged with two counts of rape and three counts of sexual assault, the Metropolitan Police said.

    The alleged offences relate to one woman and are reported to have taken place in January 2023, according to the force.

    The actor made his name as one of the stars of cult hit Blue Story in 2019, and won the Rising Star prize at the Bafta Film Awards the following year.

    He played Jamie in Netflix hit Top Boy from 2019 to 22, and was nominated for best supporting actor at the Bafta TV Awards for Small Axe in 2021.

    The Jamaican-born actor also starred in the acclaimed 2022 drama Empire of Light, and will be seen in the forthcoming US pandemic-era Western movie Eddington, which is due to be released in the UK on 22 August.

    Mr Ward is due to appear at Thames Magistrates’ Court in London on 28 August.

    The Met’s Det Supt Scott Ware said: “Our specialist officers continue to support the woman who has come forward – we know investigations of this nature can have significant impact on those who make reports.”

    Catherine Baccas, deputy chief crown prosecutor for CPS London South, said: “Having carefully reviewed a file of evidence, the Crown Prosecution Service has authorised the Metropolitan Police to charge Micheal Ward, 27, with two counts of rape, two counts of assault by penetration, and one count of sexual assault against a woman in January 2023.”

    She added: “We remind all concerned that proceedings against the suspect are active and he has a right to a fair trial.

    “It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in anyway prejudice these proceedings.”

    (BBC)

  • Mulamwah Shows How He Earned Sh1.1M From Facebook in 28 Days

    Mulamwah Shows How He Earned Sh1.1M From Facebook in 28 Days

    Popular comedian and content creator Mulamwah has left social media buzzing after revealing his impressive earnings from Facebook’s monetization program.

    The entertainer shared a screenshot of his Facebook earnings dashboard showing he made $8,844.78, equivalent to Ksh 1,142,745.58, in what appears to be a monthly payout.

    The revelation came through Mulamwah’s Instagram Stories on July 24, 2025, where he posted the earnings screenshot with his characteristic humor.

    “Facebook is finally paying. Ujanja ni kukaa mjinga. Facebook imechangamka,” he captioned the post, roughly translating to the strategy being to act innocent while Facebook has come alive.

    This significant six-figure payout has sparked widespread discussions online, with many fans expressing amazement at the substantial income potential that Facebook offers content creators.

    The news has also opened many people’s eyes to the lucrative opportunities available on the platform for consistent creators.

    Mulamwah’s journey to this financial milestone didn’t happen overnight.

    The comedian built his brand from humble beginnings, starting as a radio host before transitioning to online content creation.

    His rise to prominence was partly fueled by his public relationship dramas that attracted significant media attention, but rather than letting these distractions derail him, he channeled the attention into growing his digital presence.

    His content strategy has always centered on relatability.

    Mulamwah creates comedy skits featuring everyday scenarios that resonate with ordinary Kenyans, often using simple equipment but delivering content that connects deeply with his audience.

    This authentic approach has earned him a loyal following across multiple platforms.

    The comedian has consistently advocated for content creators to diversify their income streams and maximize the potential of digital platforms.

    His latest earnings serve as a testament to this philosophy, joining a growing number of Kenyan entertainers who are generating substantial income through content creation.

    Mulamwah’s success story demonstrates that with consistency, authenticity, and strategic use of social media platforms, content creation can evolve from a hobby into a sustainable and highly profitable career.

    His journey from simple comedy videos to earning over a million shillings monthly through Facebook monetization proves that digital platforms hold immense potential for creators willing to stay committed to their craft.

    The revelation has undoubtedly inspired many aspiring content creators, showing them that persistence and genuine connection with audiences can translate into significant financial rewards in the digital age.