Remember the audacious young intern in Single Kissing who fearlessly pursued Sintamei (played by Gathoni Mutua)? That unforgettable role was one of Brian Abajah’s big career breaks.
He was on track for a career in law before ditching the courtroom for the big screen. Since then, the actor-slash-commercial model has soared, starring in major productions like Mission to Rescue, which was Kenya’s 2022 Oscar submission for the Best International Feature Film. He has also appeared in Crime and Justice as well as Second Family.
Beneath his chiseled looks, Abajah is far more than a pretty face. Always ready to push his limits, he’s now the lead star in Showmax’s sizzling youth drama, Reckless. Abajah plays Pete, a conflicted young man grappling with guilt following a tragic accident during an illegal street race involving his younger brother (played by Sammy Okore) that changes their lives forever.
In an exclusive with Showmax, he spills on his fast-rising career and role in Reckless:
From a law degree to acting? How did you end up here?
I mean, yeah, I started, but I didn’t finish – that’s the thing, right? Life took its own twist. So here I am now, fully into film acting and chasing the dream of becoming a producer. Honestly, I just love life and everything it throws my way.
You have played diverse roles in projects like Crime and Justice and Single Kiasi. What drew you to Reckless?
What pulled me into the show was the emotional rollercoaster my character, Pete, goes through. He’s yanked out of the big city by his parents and forced to find his footing in a completely new environment. It’s a lot – heavy stuff emotionally – and it really pushed me as an actor. That challenge? Yeah, that’s what I took away from it.
Did you ever watch yourself in Single Kiasi?
(laughs) I did during the premiere events, but honestly, no. It is always awkward watching myself play these characters. You start noticing all the little things you wish you did differently. So yeah, I didn’t really watch myself after that.
Pete in Reckless starts off entitled and narcissistic but undergoes major growth. How did you prepare for the role, and what aspects of his transformation were most challenging to portray?
To channel Pete in the show meant really reading the script, studying the character bible, and understanding his journey inside and out. Huge shoutout to Gilbert Lukali, my director, and Caroline Odongo, my acting coach – she was incredible. Those emotional and vulnerable moments were tough to nail. I remember the director giving us extra time to sink into those scenes because, honestly, sometimes you just don’t hit it right on the first or even second take. The vulnerable moments? Yeah, those were the hardest.
You’ve been vocal about advocating for inclusiveness in filmmaking, even starring in Silent Checkmate with a predominantly Deaf cast. How important is representation in the projects you choose?
I am super vocal about inclusivity. Recently, I worked on a short film where the main cast were Deaf actors. I took on that project to give a voice to those who are often unheard, to do something different that could spark real impact.
Representation in storytelling is so important. For me, it’s about shining a light on people who are overlooked or don’t often get the chance to be seen or heard.
That said, I know our industry is still finding its footing. I would like to see more productions have more representation.
If you could play any role in an existing franchise, what would it be and why?
Hands down, Black Panther! I would love to play the son of the late Chadwick Boseman’s character. That film inspired me so much – seeing people who look like me doing something so powerful on a global stage.
Another dream role would be in Creed 4. Watching Michael B Jordan in Creed 3 was incredibly inspiring. It’s a sports film about boxing, and since I’m athletic and love working out, it would be such an amazing project to be part of. Just imagining myself in those roles gets me fired up.
What is the one thing that most people may not know about you?
I love making impressions of people that I know very closely. Not just celebrities or TV personalities, I’m talking about people close to me as well. I can mimic them perfectly. It’s kind of my secret party trick.
What’s your go-to comfort food after a long day of filming?
Chicken Spring rolls.
If you could have a street race with any car, what would it be?
An Audi R8. It’s fast, it’s sleek, and it’s the ultimate sports car.
Which cast member is similar to their character on the show?
Sammy was literally playing himself. That’s him. A rich kid and a ladies’ man.
If Reckless had a crossover episode with another popular Showmax series, which one would you choose and why?
Gangs of London. The cinematography, the acting. You should watch it.
Are you currently dating?
For now, I’m not dating – I’m all about work right now. But hey, I’m keeping my options open, and you can hit me up anytime!
What’s next for you?
I am currently building my own production house, working hard to release a tonne of content and short films. It’s not just about me – I want to keep inspiring the next generation coming after me.
Watch Brian Abajah on Reckless on Showmax now, with new episodes every Monday
