A rare video featuring former The Real Househelps of Kawangware (TRHK) actor Onyi has resurfaced online, prompting an emotional reaction from Kenyans who fondly remember his memorable performances on the popular comedy series.
The short clip, shared on Instagram, shows Onyi outdoors near a dusty roadside. He is seen wearing a faded grey hoodie and a green Shrek cap as another person records him.
Despite the informal setting, Onyi appears cheerful and confident. He looks into the camera, makes a playful remark about his appearance and walks away, apparently heading towards a matatu.
The video immediately caught the attention of fans because Onyi was one of the recognisable personalities associated with The Real Househelps of Kawangware, a comedy series that developed a strong following among Kenyan television viewers.
The clip also brought back memories of the challenges Onyi publicly discussed after the show stopped airing.
In 2022, the actor spoke about the difficult period he experienced after the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted Kenya’s entertainment industry. The interruption affected opportunities for many actors and other workers who depended on regular productions.
Onyi said he struggled to secure consistent employment after TRHK was discontinued. According to his earlier account, his financial difficulties eventually made it difficult for him to continue paying rent for his home in Umoja.
He subsequently moved to his sister’s rental property in Syokimau as he tried to cope with the difficult circumstances.
His story made him a familiar figure beyond his work on television, particularly among fans who had followed his journey and remembered his distinctive voice, dreadlocks and comic delivery.
The newly resurfaced video has now given those viewers another opportunity to celebrate the actor and recall some of the moments that made TRHK popular.
Several social media users responded warmly after recognising him.
One fan described Onyi as a much-loved figure from the show, while another praised him as one of the series’ best actors. Others used humorous comments to recall how intimidating or entertaining his character could be on screen.
The reactions demonstrated that, years after the comedy series left television, Onyi remains a memorable figure among its former audience.
Rather than focusing only on the difficult period he previously described, many fans used the latest clip to express affection for the actor and celebrate the memories associated with his work.
The resurfaced video therefore offers a reminder of the lasting impact TRHK had on Kenyan comedy and why some of its actors continue to attract attention even after the programme ended.