Ted Kitana, popularly known by his screen name Kilunda from the once-celebrated TV drama Tahidi High, has opened up about his decision to step away from the acting world and embrace a quieter life in Kangundo. The former actor, now living with his mother, has chosen farming over fame and says he finds greater satisfaction in his current lifestyle.
Despite holding a law degree, Kitana never practiced as a lawyer. Reflecting on his decision, he candidly admitted that the profession didn’t align with his personal values. He took time off in Norway to consider his future before eventually venturing into the entertainment scene, where he earned national recognition through his role in Tahidi High.
However, the glamour of acting didn’t match the reality behind the scenes. Kitana revealed that contrary to public perception, the job wasn’t financially rewarding. “We used to be paid peanuts,” he confessed, adding that the role had become monotonous and no longer stimulating for him creatively. The breaking point came when he woke up one day and simply decided not to return to set, choosing to quit with a single message.
Kitana’s departure was also driven by the harsh realities of typecasting. Audiences and casting directors struggled to see him beyond his iconic role, which made it difficult to land diverse roles. “People only saw me as Kilunda, just like how others only see Omosh in a particular light,” he noted.
In stepping away from acting, he also stepped away from social media. He deactivated his accounts to avoid constant inquiries about his career and personal life. He now enjoys a slower, more intentional life alongside his mother, engaging in poultry farming and cultivating vegetables for income. This, he says, has brought him peace and a sense of purpose.
Kitana didn’t shy away from discussing the broader struggles facing actors in Kenya. He argued that the local entertainment industry has become increasingly unsustainable, with low pay and little respect for talent. “If I ask for a fair amount like KSh 100,000 and you can’t pay, I simply won’t act,” he asserted, urging fellow actors to stop settling for less out of desperation.
He also offered heartfelt advice to struggling entertainers, encouraging them to embrace honest work, no matter how small or unconventional it may seem. Kitana emphasized the importance of having backup plans, saving money, and investing while still earning. He disclosed that even while acting, he ran several side businesses—including a shop, an M-Pesa outlet, a salon, and a small-scale farm—to stay financially afloat.
He believes that financial hardship isn’t unique to celebrities; it affects many people across the country. His message to those going through tough times is clear: remain resilient, trust in God, and never be ashamed of doing what’s necessary to survive. For him, life in Kangundo has proven to be a fulfilling chapter, offering not just economic sustainability but also emotional and spiritual calm.
