Kate Actress Biography captures the life of Catherine Kamau, one of Kenya’s most celebrated actresses, social media influencers, and entrepreneurs. Rising to prominence through her unforgettable role as Celina in Mother-in-Law, she has since evolved into a versatile film star, brand ambassador, and role model for young women in the entertainment industry.
Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Catherine Kamau |
| Stage Name | Kate Actress |
| Date of Birth | February 3, 1987 |
| Age | 38 years (as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Nyahururu, Kenya |
| Nationality | Kenyan |
| Occupations | Actress, Entrepreneur, Social Media Influencer |
| Education | Chogoria High School, Loreto Convent Msongari, Makerere University, Multimedia University (Diploma in Mass Communication – PR) |
| Career Debut | 2008 in TV series Mother-in-Law |
| Breakthrough Role | Celina in Mother-in-Law (Citizen TV) |
| Notable Roles | Sue na Jonnie, Plan B, Nafsi, Disconnect, Love Ransom, A Grand Little Lie |
| Business Ventures | Founder of House of Humba (beauty brand, launched 2022) |
| Marital Status | Previously married to Philip Karanja (2017–2023) |
| Children | Leon Kamau (b. 2006), Baby K (b. Dec 15, 2019) |
| Brand Endorsements | Harpic Kenya, Nice & Lovely, Petroleum Jelly |
| Awards | Kalasha Award for Best Lead Actress in TV Drama (2017), Ladies in Media Award – African Female Actor of the Year (2023), Pulse Influencer Award (2023) |
| Residence | Nairobi, Kenya |
Early Life and Education
Catherine Kamau was born on February 3, 1987, in Nyahururu, Kenya, as the firstborn in her family. She began her secondary education at Chogoria High School, where her participation in drama laid the foundation for her acting career. She later transferred to Loreto Convent Msongari in Nairobi, excelling both academically and socially, even winning the Miss Msongari Pageant.
Catherine initially enrolled at KCA University for accountancy before shifting to Makerere University in Uganda. Ultimately, she pursued her passion at Multimedia University, earning a diploma in Mass Communication with a focus on Public Relations.
Acting Career
Kate Actress began her professional career in 2008 at age 21 with her role as Celina in Mother-in-Law. Her character, filled with wit and authenticity, became a household name and cemented her status as a national star over eight years.
Her versatility shone through in later projects, including Sue na Jonnie (2017), where she played Sue in a Swahili drama series, earning critical acclaim. She expanded her portfolio with roles in films such as Plan B, Nafsi, Disconnect, Love Ransom, The Wedding Planner, and A Grand Little Lie. These performances showcased her range across romance, drama, and comedy.
Family and Personal Life
Catherine is a mother of two. Her first child, Leon Kamau, was born while she was at Makerere University. In 2017, she married filmmaker Philip Karanja, whom she met during her time on Mother-in-Law. Their marriage lasted nearly six years before they announced their separation in September 2023. Together, they share a daughter, Baby K, born in December 2019.
Despite her challenges, Kate has been open about her journey as a mother and professional, offering inspiration to young women balancing career and family.
Entrepreneurship and Influence
In 2022, Kate launched her beauty brand, House of Humba, although operations paused due to financial and logistical hurdles. She has emphasized that this was a strategic break to restructure the business for future success.
As a brand influencer, she has partnered with major companies including Harpic Kenya and Nice & Lovely. Her social media presence, marked by authenticity and humor, has made her one of Kenya’s most relatable public figures.
Awards and Recognition
Kate Actress’s contributions have been recognized with multiple awards:
- Kalasha Award (2017): Best Lead Actress in TV Drama (Sue na Jonnie)
- Kalasha Nominations (2018 & 2019): Best Supporting Actress (Disconnect, Plan B)
- Ladies in Media Award (2023): African Female Actor of the Year
- Pulse Influencer Award (2023): Fashion category
These honors reflect her impact both on-screen and in digital spaces.
Legacy
Kate Actress has grown from a local drama star to one of Kenya’s most influential entertainers. Her journey embodies persistence, creativity, and reinvention. As an actress, entrepreneur, and influencer, she continues to shape Kenya’s cultural landscape while inspiring the next generation of artists and entrepreneurs.
