Omari Hardwick Engages with “Chocolate Empire” Cast in Nairobi: A Milestone for African Storytelling

Omari Hardwick Connects with Chocolate Empire Cast: A Landmark Moment for Kenyan Cinema, Acclaimed American actor Omari Hardwick, best known for his portrayal of James “Ghost” St. Patrick in the hit TV series Power, made a significant impact on Kenya’s entertainment scene by engaging with the cast of Chocolate Empire, a highly anticipated Showmax Original premiering today. His visit marks a pivotal moment in strengthening ties between Hollywood and Africa’s thriving film industry.

On March 20th, MultiChoice Africa (DStv) had the prestigious opportunity to host acclaimed American actor Omari Hardwick, renowned for his role as "Ghost" in the hit series Power, during an exclusive industry fireside chat at CCI Kenya’s Tatu City offices.

— Nairobi Fashion Hub (@nairobifashionhub.bsky.social) 2025-03-28T11:56:00.903Z

A Star-Studded Fireside Chat at CCI Kenya

Hosted at CCI Kenya, the exclusive fireside chat brought together key figures in the entertainment industry, including filmmakers, veteran actors, emerging talents, and creative professionals. The event served as a unique platform for dialogue on the future of African storytelling and its expanding influence on the global entertainment landscape.

Hardwick’s presence underscored Kenya’s growing prominence as a hub for film and television production. As streaming platforms continue to invest in African content, such collaborations signify a new era of recognition for local creatives on an international scale.

Omari Hardwick’s Perspective: Honoring Kenya’s Creative Industry

Renowned for his depth in character portrayal and dedication to the craft, Hardwick shared his admiration for Kenya’s vibrant storytelling culture.

“Kenya’s creative scene is rich with talent, and I feel privileged to have connected with so many passionate individuals here,” he stated. “Storytelling from this region is deeply authentic and resonates universally. It’s a reminder that no matter where our stories originate, they have the power to inspire and impact global audiences.”

He also acknowledged the rising presence of African films and series on international streaming platforms, expressing excitement over the opportunities this shift presents for content creators across the continent.

“The world is ready for African narratives bold, unfiltered, and unapologetically authentic,” Hardwick declared, reinforcing the need for African filmmakers to tell their stories fearlessly.

This dynamic event brought together filmmakers, industry stakeholders, and local actors for an insightful conversation with Hardwick, who shared his wealth of experience and invaluable insights on navigating the global entertainment industry.

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Spotlight on Chocolate Empire: A New Showmax Original

One of the key highlights of Hardwick’s visit was his interaction with the cast and crew of Chocolate Empire, a gripping drama that delves into power, redemption, and secrecy within Kenya’s elite circles.

The series follows JB Mauzo (portrayed by veteran actor Jimmy Gathu), a former business magnate recently released from prison, determined to rebuild his life. However, unbeknownst to those around him, he secretly operates a high-end escort service from his luxurious cigar lounge, navigating a world of ambition, deception, and danger.

The show also stars celebrated singer-actress Sanaipei Tande, whose versatility continues to elevate Kenya’s entertainment industry. With a compelling storyline and an impressive cast, Chocolate Empire is poised to captivate audiences both locally and internationally.

Hollywood Meets Kenyan Talent: The Cast’s Take on Hardwick’s Visit

For the Chocolate Empire cast, meeting Omari Hardwick was a transformative experience, offering invaluable insights into acting, character development, and the dedication required to succeed on a global scale.

Reflecting on the interaction, Jimmy Gathu lauded Hardwick’s commitment to storytelling:

“Having Omari here reinforces that storytelling transcends borders. His insights into character immersion, discipline, and passion for the craft are lessons we will carry forward. It’s inspiring to see Showmax facilitate such interactions, which are crucial for the growth of our industry.”

Sanaipei Tande echoed similar sentiments, noting that Hardwick’s career trajectory serves as a blueprint for African actors aiming to expand their reach beyond their home markets.

Elisha Kamau, Public Relations Manager at MultiChoice Kenya, emphasized the broader significance of Hardwick’s engagement with local talent:

“Today’s connection with Omari Hardwick is a testament to the growing influence of African storytelling on the global stage. His journey—from independent films to mainstream success—mirrors the aspirations of many African creatives. This wasn’t just a meet-and-greet; it was an opportunity to empower, inspire, and challenge our filmmakers to tell their stories boldly.”

Attendees also had the privilege of previewing The Chocolate Empire, an upcoming Showmax Original featuring an all-star cast, including Jimmy Gathu, Sanaipei Tande, and Derek Mbanga.

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A Defining Moment for African Cinema

Hardwick’s fireside chat marked the grand finale of his four-day visit to Kenya, which began last Friday. During his stay, he immersed himself in the local culture, met with industry professionals, and explored Kenya’s potential as a rising powerhouse for film production.

His visit reinforced Africa’s increasing recognition in global entertainment, highlighting Kenya as a country with rich storytelling traditions, world-class talent, and an evolving film infrastructure capable of competing on an international scale. As streaming giants like Netflix, Showmax, and Amazon Prime continue expanding their African content libraries, collaborations between Hollywood and local filmmakers are expected to grow, ushering in an exciting new era for the continent’s entertainment industry.

The fireside chat marked the grand finale of Hardwick’s four-day tour in Kenya, leaving a profound and lasting impact on all who attended, further solidifying Kenya’s growing presence on the international film and television stage.

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A New Chapter for Kenyan Film & Television

Omari Hardwick’s visit and his engagement with the Chocolate Empire cast symbolize a new chapter for Kenya’s film and television landscape. With increasing international collaborations, mentorship opportunities, and global streaming platforms providing new avenues for exposure, the future looks promising for local storytellers.

Kenya’s film industry is on the rise, and the world is taking notice. The momentum generated by Hardwick’s visit is expected to inspire further cross-cultural partnerships, elevating Kenyan narratives to global prominence. For local creatives, the message is clear: The time to tell Africa’s stories is now—and the world is ready to listen.

Omari Hardwick, whose visit marked a key highlight in Kenya’s growing film industry spoke passionately about the country’s creative potential. Kenya’s vibrant creative industry has so much to offer & I’m thrilled to have had the chance to connect with so many talented individuals during my time here

— Nairobi Fashion Hub (@nairobifashionhub.bsky.social) 2025-03-28T12:00:52.022Z

Content courtesy of NFH Digital Team