Celestine Gachuhi: From Selina Stardom to Her Powerful Showmax Return in Adam to Eve

After captivating Kenyan audiences in Selina, one of the country’s most beloved TV heroines and Kalasha Award nominee, Celestine Gachuhi, makes a triumphant return to the screen with her highly anticipated Showmax debut in Adam to Eve.

Now balancing life as a mother, wife, mentor, and women’s rights advocate, Celestine proves that growth does not mean stepping away from the spotlight — it means shining in it differently.

In Adam to Eve, she stars as Amanda, a character defined by quiet strength, emotional depth, and unwavering grace. Off-screen, her passion continues through Film Connect Africa, where she mentors emerging creatives, and the SIMAMA Initiative, which advocates against gender-based violence (GBV).

In this exclusive interview, Celestine reflects on life after Selina, her journey into motherhood, and her long-awaited return to television.

Life After Selina and Kiu: A Season of Transformation

It’s been a while since audiences last saw Celestine on screen after the end of Selina and Kiu — and that pause was intentional.

“Yes, it’s been a minute. After Selina, I did KIU about five months later, then took a deliberate step back. Life shifted in the biggest way. I became a wife. I became a mother. And everything changed.”

Away from the spotlight, Celestine focused on building her personal brand, rediscovering her purpose, and nurturing passions beyond acting.

“I poured my energy into things close to my heart — mentoring young creatives through Film Connect Africa and standing up for women through the SIMAMA Initiative.”

Empowering the Next Generation Through Film Connect Africa

Celestine founded Film Connect Africa to bridge the gap between aspiring creatives and the realities of Kenya’s entertainment industry.

“When I started acting, I was green. No one told me what a real film set is like, how the industry works, or how tough it can be.”

Through workshops in primary schools, high schools, and colleges, she equips young creatives with industry knowledge, life skills, branding tools, and mindset training.

“Young people are now branding themselves, creating content, and using social media strategically. I always tell them: Don’t wait for opportunities — create them.”

Her Core Advice to Aspiring Storytellers:

“Talent will take you up there, but discipline will keep you there.”

Becoming Amanda: Crafting Quiet Strength in Adam to Eve

In Adam to Eve, Celestine plays Amanda, a character who stands strong among loud personalities through calm confidence and emotional intelligence.

“I don’t just play a character — I live her. I build her life in my head, even the parts not written in the script.”

Amanda represents gentle power, emotional honesty, and resilience, making her one of Celestine’s most layered roles.

“She’s calm but strong, bubbly yet grounded. She’s the friend who holds your hand, lifts you up, and tells you the truth — even when it hurts.”

What sets Amanda apart from Celestine’s previous roles is her joy:

“She knows how to have fun without guilt, even while carrying responsibility for her family.”

The Craziest Fan Encounter: When Fame Crossed the Line

Fame has its highs — but also unsettling moments.

“In 2019, a fan tracked me down to my house in Ruaka. One morning at 7 a.m., she showed up at my door with a bag.”

The fan insisted on singing together, refusing to leave despite repeated requests.

“She kept saying, ‘No. I want us to sing together. I even have my bag.’ I had to threaten to call the police.”

The incident permanently changed Celestine’s view of privacy, safety, and fame, prompting her to relocate immediately.

Advocacy and Acting: How Women’s Empowerment Shapes Her Roles

Celestine’s advocacy for women deeply influences her approach to every character she portrays.

“I love being a woman. I love empowering women. Every role I play, I approach it knowing this character is a woman first.”

This philosophy guided her portrayal of Amanda — blending softness, vulnerability, strength, and grace to reflect the complexity of real women.

“That’s how real women live.”