Kenya’s ultimate dating reality show returns with higher stakes, diverse participants, raw unfiltered drama and a major shake-up on the panel with 1st episode landing on 31 October
After weeks of guesses, teasers and varied opinions on social media, the secret is out. Actress, model and content creator Trisha Khalid is the new celebrity co-host of Hello Mr. Right Kenya, joining Dr. Ofweneke and relationship expert Getrude Mungai as the show launches its fifth season.
Trisha was unveiled this morning at a press briefing at Victoria Towers, Upper Hill, to cheers from the room. She takes over from Risper Faith, who co-hosted Season 4.
The producers say the choice reflects where Kenyan pop culture is heading. Trisha represents the next wave of superstars, combining a fresh look, proven talent and a huge social media following with a knack for creating an online buzz.
Dr. Ofweneke said the production team had its own list.
“We had around five names on the table. We looked at personality, energy, authenticity and originality, at what each person thinks about love and marriage, and of course we checked the beauty as well. Everything settled on Trisha Khalid,” said Dr. Ofweneke. “Personally, I know I’m going to have a good time this season.”
Trisha promised the viewers a lively ride, and a warning for her co-host. “I expect more energy and more fun from both of us. I’m about to stress him (Dr. Ofweneke) out,” she said.
StarTimes says the choice was deliberate. “The candidate we selected is not new to the audience. She has a huge following and great TV hosting experience. Women want to be her, and men want to have her,” said Tamima Ibrahim, Marketing Director at StarTimes.
StarTimes brings Carabao Cup Semi-Final fireworks to Kenyan fans
A season that goes wider
Season 5 widens the dating pool. Producers say the cast now includes differently abled contestants, people living with skin pigmentation challenges, and men and women aged 45 and above, including those who are divorced, separated or widowed. There are contestants in their 50s, and a 65-year-old man has come looking for love.
“The new look this season has mature women,” said Getrude Mungai. “We have had women over 45, and we have a 65-year-old man coming to look for love.”
For Dr. Ofweneke, the real draw is the conversation. “There are going to be a lot of realistic life experiences about what love and relationships are, and what men and women expect from marriage. We will also hear a lot of ideas and beliefs about family, money and wealth. As lead host, I’m keen that we handle the most pertinent issues when it comes to choosing a partner,” he said.
Viewers can expect panel debates on who pays, what financial maturity looks like, and who cooks. Opinions are plentiful and agreement is not guaranteed.
Why StarTimes is backing it again
“Hello Mr. Right is the biggest dating reality show in Africa. We are very happy with the show’s performance, and our subscribers have been very loyal in supporting it throughout the many years it has been on air. We hope this year will not be any different,” said Tamima.
The show is StarTimes’ flagship local content for October, heading into the festive season.
Where and when to watch
• Auditions episode: Saturday 17 October
• Episode 1: Saturday 31 October
• Time: every Saturday, 8pm
• Channel: Rembo TV, channel 113 on StarTimes (aerial/DTT decoders) and channel 484 on StarTimes DTH, Streaming on StarTimes ON App
• Join the conversation: #HelloMrRightKe
