Many viewers remember Dennis Humphrey for his breakout role as Kaka in Rashid Abdalla’s Sultana. That performance catapulted him into the spotlight, and fans still affectionately call him by the character’s name.
Now, Humphrey returns to the small screen as Malo in Daudi Anguka’s crime drama Mizani, starring alongside Michael Saruni and Keith Chuaga. The series currently airs on Showmax and Maisha Magic Plus.
From Actor to Award‑Winning Filmmaker
Off‑screen, Humphrey is far from the characters that made him famous. Despite his striking looks and towering presence, he describes himself as an introvert, a writer, and a storyteller driven by truth.
In 2021, he won two Kalasha Awards for his debut short film Fikirini, which he wrote and produced.
“Winning two Kalasha Awards in my mid‑20s was surreal,” he recalls. “I didn’t expect that reception. What stayed with me was the feedback; people saw the work, understood it, and accepted it. My mother was proud, and those who backed me felt validated. That day was unbelievable, but more than anything, it was worth it.”
Writing as the Foundation
While many know him as an actor, Humphrey’s career began with writing.
“Writing is where everything started. I’ve been a writer for about five years, working with major companies in Kenya. That curiosity pushed me to try acting for real, and Sultana was my first big break.”
Since then, he has acted in Mkasi, worked on the theatre project Redemption, and continued producing his own films. Balancing acting, writing, and producing hasn’t been easy, but he says he is learning to make it work.
On Daudi Anguka’s Influence
Humphrey speaks highly of Mizani creator Daudi Anguka:
“Watching him grow and lift the Mombasa flag higher means everything. He doesn’t just succeed and disappear; he reaches back, holds hands, and shows people the steps. When someone from your background makes it, you believe you can too.”
Life Beyond the Screen
Despite his fame, Humphrey comes from a large family of six siblings and describes himself as grounded.
When not on set, he unwinds by watching films and series. His current favorites include Jiji and Second Family. His all‑time favorite show? Snowfall. His pick for best Kenyan film? Nairobi Half Life.
The Future of African Storytelling
Humphrey believes Africa’s cinematic future lies in authenticity:
“The future of African storytelling is in human stories—narratives people can relate to. There are powerful stories in our communities that haven’t been told yet. Even our history, like Kaya Bombo or Nabongo, remains unexplored on screen. We don’t always need to invent worlds. Sometimes we just need to look around.”
On‑Set Moments
Humphrey describes Reinhard Inzai Bonke as the funniest castmate:
“He has this subtle humor you don’t see the joke coming, but it’s always laughter with him.”
The loudest? Michael Saruni.
“He’s very sociable. He talks a lot and connects with everyone. There’s no dull moment with him.”
A Playful Side
Asked what his character’s dating profile might say, Humphrey laughs:
Bio: Tall, dark, and handsome.
Special skills: Negotiating.
Lifestyle: I smoke. I drink.
Tagline: If you want danger with a soft side, swipe right.
And when it comes to food, he’s clear: Pilau over chapati.
