Singer Habida on playing Lorna in steamy adult drama 4Play

Kenyan sensation Habida Moloney stole our hearts with her MAMAs-winning hit song Sunshine. After dominating the charts, the singer transitioned to her first love: acting. Fans couldn’t get enough of her fiery performance on Maisha Magic Plus hit show Zari, even after her unexpected exit.  

Now, the mother of two takes on the bold and feisty role of Lorna in Showmax’s steamiest drama yet. 

Watch the trailer for 4Play

In an exclusive, she discusses her journey to 4Play, where she plays Bilal Wanjau’s onscreen wife:  

You had throat surgery earlier this year. How has the recovery journey been for you? 

After my throat surgery, I feared that I would lose my voice permanently. I remember I couldn’t speak for two weeks, and this was scary for me. As someone who relies on their voice, the thought of losing it was unimaginable.  

But I pushed through therapy, and it was emotional when I could finally speak again. Getting back on set with 4Play felt like reclaiming a part of myself. I could finally be in my element, doing what I love most, even if it meant long hours and little sleep. 

This is your Showmax debut. What were your initial reactions when you got the call? 

When I got the call, I was ecstatic. Acting is my first love. Acting is one thing I’d wake up at 4am for and go all day without a break, just for the thrill of it.  

How do you manage to be a successful singer, actress, gym enthusiast, and mother of two? Any tips? 

Balance? (laughs) I’ll be honest – I don’t have it. I’m always tired. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s to be kind to myself. I remind myself that if one thing falls apart, it’s okay; I’ll get back to it when I can. My day starts early with my kids, packing their lunches, and then I head to the gym. The rest of my day is a mix of meetings, media tours, and business dinners, and by midnight, I’m catching up on work at home. Somehow, we make it all work, but “balance” is still a distant dream. 

Tell us one hilarious moment you had with your on-set husband, Michael, aka Bilal Wanjau.  

There was a scene where Lorna finds Michael in a compromising position – trust me, it was hard to keep a straight face! And don’t get me started on the intimate scenes where he was supposed to get on top, but he couldn’t and so I had to take charge instead. The entire crew was laughing, and it’s these lighthearted moments that make working on 4Play so memorable. 

Just like Lorna, you are a fashion girl yourself. What is your personal style? 

It really depends. Some days, I’m all about comfort – jeans, a classic top, and maybe a pair of heels. Other days, it’s all about making a statement in a short dress. Lorna has a sophisticated style, which I love bringing out on screen, but my personal style is a bit more laid-back.  

Fun fact about you that your fans might not know? 

I love lifting weights. I used to compete in powerlifting, and I’m proud to say I can bench 60 kg and 90 kg deadlift. Lifting has always been my way to stay strong, both mentally and physically, and it’s something I still enjoy when I’m not on set. I am trying to get into polo as well.  

Favorite meal? 

Thai food any day. I also love some ugali mayai.  

How do you unwind after a long day on set?  

A glass of wine and some Dairy Milk chocolate as I watch my favorite movie or show.  

Watch Habida on 4Play with all 13 episodes now available to binge on Showmax.