Ann Muli spills on her challenging role in The Chocolate Empire and working with legends Jimmy Gathu and Sanaipei Tande

She’s got the looks, the talent, and the hustle! Actress, model, and fashion influencer Ann Muli dazzled audiences in the Showmax Original Christmas hit A Familiar Christmas for which she clinched the Best Supporting Actress nomination at the 2024 Kalasha Awards.  

She now stars in the sizzling new Showmax crime drama The Chocolate Empire. Ann plays Lily, a young woman from a struggling family who lands a job at JB’s (played by the legendary Jimmy Gathu) nightclub to make ends meet. Could there be sparks flying? She just might be the next big love interest in this thrilling series. 

In an exclusive with Showmax, Ann reflects on meeting her idols and her newest role.

How was the auditioning process for you? 

The audition process was nothing short of intense! If you have ever crossed paths with Phillip Bresson, you would know he’s as thorough as they come. The pressure? Sky-high. 

How did you prepare to bring your character to life? 

Bringing my character to life wasn’t easy, especially since she had two sides: her normal self and a more rebellious version. To get into character, I watched shows like Rockville from South Africa for inspiration. 

When it came to embodying the tougher, edgier side of my character, music became my secret weapon. On days I needed to channel that energy, I would listen to Nicki Minaj, Rihanna, Cardi B, and Summer Walker. It really helped me get into the right mindset before stepping on set. 

Playing the “good girl” side was much easier for me because it felt natural. But the rebellious side? That pushed me out of my comfort zone. Thankfully, I had an amazing support system, and my friends were there to encourage me. Music really helped set the mood and made it all come together. 

With this project, you get to work with several veterans like Jimmy and Sanaipei Tande, who plays your mother. What was it like working with them?  

Day one on set was very intimidating for me. I remember feeling overwhelmed at first, but as the days went on, I got more comfortable. Sharing a set with these legends was so iconic. It was a fantastic learning opportunity, and in hindsight, I still look up to them. The ultimate highlight? Working with the one and only Sanaipei Tande. I’ve always been her biggest fan. I even attended some of the karaoke nights she hosted. 

You play Jimmy Gathu’s on-screen love interest. What were some of your favourite scenes with him?  

I had some intense steamy scenes with Jimmy’s character. Thankfully, the directors knew how to set the mood – bringing in intimacy coaches to ensure everything was handled with care and professionalism. By the end, I thought that wasn’t so bad. 

But don’t let the on-screen sparks fool you. What looks smooth and sexy on camera is anything but during filming. It’s hectic! There are camera angles, lighting setups, and endless direction all happening at once. 

Talking about challenging scenes, tell us about your experience working with your on-screen mother, Sanaipei.  

Filming with Sanaipei was no walk in the park. I wouldn’t call the scenes challenging, but it pushed me. Playing opposite Tande’s fierce character, who’s both a guiding force and an unyielding obstacle, was no small feat. If I had a dollar for every time Margaret slapped me in the show, I would be a millionaire!  

She really instils the fear of God in Lily – it’s powerful and fuels so much of their emotional conflict. The raw intensity of these moments was thrilling to dive into. Working with Sanaipei fed into that fear and love, making those emotional scenes so impactful. The crying? It came naturally, but channelling that raw emotion takes everything out of you. 

Lily finds herself in a complicated romantic situation. What’s the best piece of relationship advice you’ve ever received? 

One of the best pieces of advice I have received is to never lose yourself. In any relationship, whether personal or professional. As a woman, you might give so much of yourself that you forget who you are. So always take care of yourself and never compromise your values. 

What are the five things on your 2025 bucket list? 

Adventure is calling! First on the bucket list? A heart-pounding bungee jump in South Africa. I want to feel that adrenaline rush – it’s been on my mind for ages! Morocco is high on my list, but I also want to explore Kenya more. Can you believe I’ve never been to the Maasai Mara at my age? It’s time to change that. I’d love to explore different cuisines, especially unique foods. Nigeria’s food scene is calling my name! 

What’s next? 

The world is my oyster. Watch this space.  

Watch Ann Muli in The Chocolate Empire now streaming on Showmax.