Socialites S1-2

Philippe Bresson has shaped the film and TV industry in Kenya since 2010, and continues to do so with shows like Socialites.

Adopting the format of a reality TV show, Socialites shines the spotlight on “the lifestyles of the pretty and desperate” and follows Cici (played by Diana Nderitu, New Beginnings) and her two friends Tina (Our Perfect Wedding host Angie Mlay) and Nancy (newcomer Ruena Kiarie) as they chase money and fame from men who are willing to give it – also known as sponsors.

Just like the headlines that have defined the popularity of Kenyan socialites and slay queens like Vera Sidika, Socialites is loaded with drama and controversy – but it’s also funny, especially in scenes where Ruena Kiarie’s Nancy is involved. As the newest member of the group, Nancy, who has a rocky start as a socialite, hones her craft by watching YouTube videos of famous socialites and getting lessons from Cici and Tina.

Even though these women are concerned with keeping up appearances and sharing their “good life and wealth” on social media, beneath the façade they are all also dealing with the personal issues that drove them to the kind of lifestyle they are now leading.

Tina’s story of sexual assault by her stepfather, and Cici’s history of being kicked out by her mother when she fell pregnant as a teen lend a serious edge that add interest to this otherwise fun show.