Godfrey Odhiambo on Reckless, his career, and the evolution of Kenyan film

2007 was a landmark year for Kenyan cinema, and at its heart was Bob Nyanja’s bold, award-winning romantic drama Malooned!. The film introduced audiences to a younger Godfrey Odhiambo, whose portrayal of a man trapped in a washroom with a fiery stranger was both captivating and controversial.

Since then, Godfrey has become a powerhouse in Kenyan film, delivering standout performances in critically acclaimed hits like From a Whisper, Nairobi Half Life, and Subira.

Now, he takes on one of his most challenging roles yet in the youth drama, Reckless. As the patriarch of the Sonoko family, he battles ruthless corporate adversaries while grappling with the chaos caused by his sons’ reckless choices.

In an exclusive with Showmax, the father of two speaks spills on his career and newest role:

Having starred in popular films such as From a Whisper and Malooned!, what has changed the most in the Kenyan film industry?

I think what has changed the most is the acceptance by the audience. These days, Kenyan shows are being celebrated like never before. It’s incredible to see how Kenyans have stepped up to support, enjoy, and champion our own talent. For actors and filmmakers like me, it’s such a relief to know we have a homegrown audience rooting for us.

What excited you most about playing Edward Sonoko?

Edward Sonoko is calm, composed, and always grounded. Honestly, I connected with him on such a personal level. Here’s why: I’m a father of two boys, just like Edward in the series. My sons have so many similarities to Edward’s boys. It was like art imitating life. Every scene felt natural, almost like I was just living my real life on screen. It was such a special experience for me!

What was it like working with Brian Abajah and Sammy Okore to create that family tension on screen?

I would say the story itself was a huge help – it gave us so much to work with. Then, of course, experimenting as actors to find what worked best for the story and for us was key. Getting that balance made all the difference in bringing it to life.

Brian, though – he’s something else. He reminds me so much of my younger self from the Malooned! days. Off set, we would find ourselves having these deep conversations with him, asking him the kind of questions I would have asked myself at his age.

Watch a teaser of Reckless

You’ve played roles in both film and theatre. What’s the biggest difference between preparing for a stage performance and a TV drama like Reckless?

The main difference is that when you're preparing for the stage, your performance is out there. When you're performing for the screen, your performance is in here. The most interesting part is that for the stage, it’s one take. For screen, there are a couple of takes. On stage, as an actor, you prepare for the character holistically – it’s one full-package performance for the audience. It’s a two-hour show. For the screen, you prepare for the scene. I would say it’s more challenging preparing for the stage, but it’s more fulfilling.

Edward’s story arc requires him to make a great sacrifice. Without giving spoilers, how do you think audiences will react to his fate?

Edward Sonoko is a character that I must say the audience is really going to love. What I can say without spoiling it is, they’re in for a journey and a treat. They’re in for moments they don’t expect, for twists and turns they won’t see coming.

If you had to give one piece of advice to young actors trying to break into the industry, what would it be?

To all the young and upcoming actors out there, hear me out: treat acting as a sacred craft. Don’t rush it. Before you even think of marketing yourself, take the time to prepare. Master your skills before you put yourself out there.

Learn. Grow. And most importantly, be disciplined. Your willingness to learn, your openness to being corrected, and your ability to adapt should set you apart. Let those qualities be unmatched, and trust me, the world will notice. Respect the craft, and it will reward you in ways you can’t imagine.

What are you currently watching on Showmax?

Currently, I’m watching Jiji and Faithless.

What’s your favourite moment on set?

It is that minute just before the camera rolls, where you must forget all the preparation and actually play the scene. That’s a magical moment. The transition from preparation to performance.

If you could give advice to your 20-year-old self, what would it be?

Challenge yourself to be a better version of you. The only competition you have is the older version of you.

When you're not working, how do you unwind?

I love watching my favourite shows on TV, going to the gym – I work out a lot – and just spending time with my family.

Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies?

I can dance. And I love to swim. As big as I am, yeah, I can swim.

What’s your go-to comfort food after a long filming day?

Wet fried kienyeji chicken with ugali and kachumbari.

What’s next for you?

There are a couple of things in the pipeline, but the immediate one is that I think I’m going to do a stage play. I’m preparing for that right now.