Before Charles Ouda passed away in February 2024, he was working on 4 Play, an 18-rated adult drama that delves deep into the lives of four men navigating friendship, love, and survival in Nairobi. Now, the series is set to premiere on November 21, marking Ouda’s last contribution to the screen.
Ouda, who was not only an actor but also a writer and casting director for the show, leaves behind a lasting legacy. The cause of his death has remained undisclosed, with his family choosing not to comment. However, his work on 4 Play continues to capture the real struggles and triumphs of men in Nairobi.
The series follows four friends—Malik, Allan, Edu, and Michael—played by Daniel Weke, Elsaphan Njora, Maina wa Ndungu, and Bilal Wanjau. These characters navigate a world full of ambition, loyalty, and personal chaos, reflecting the daily challenges many men face in Nairobi’s dynamic environment.
Supporting them are talented actors like Patricia Kihoro, Habida Moloney, and Tracy Macharia, who help bring depth to the show. 4 Play is produced by James Kombo, who also worked on Pepeta, and directed by Mwangi Rurengo, Janet Chumbe, and Mkaiwai Mwakaba, who makes her directorial debut.
James Kombo shared that the show was inspired by the need to focus on the male perspective, capturing the struggles men face in relationships, work, and the fast-paced Nairobi lifestyle. The show touches on adult themes such as sex work and addiction, topics often left unexplored in mainstream Kenyan TV.
Head writer Abigail Arunga expressed that 4 Play gave her the freedom to portray adult relationships and sensuality in an authentic way, setting the show apart from others.
With a strong cast, bold storytelling, and an unapologetic look at Nairobi’s nightlife and culture, 4 Play is sure to captivate audiences as it premieres on November 21.
By Vivian K.