The accomplished scriptwriter and actor, Abel Mutua, has shared intriguing behind-the-scenes details from his time as a cast member and camera operator on the popular TV show, “Tahidi High,” during an enlightening conversation on the Mic Cheque podcast.
During the podcast interview, Mutua revealed a surprising revelation from their early days on the show when they were earning a modest Sh3,000 per episode as part of the “Tahidi High” cast.
“In the first year, we were earning Sh3,000 per episode. Then, at one point, the boss SK Macharia came across our payroll. He was astonished to discover that these rising stars were receiving a mere Sh3,000,” Mutua shared.
He went on to disclose that SK Macharia promptly ordered a salary review, recognizing that their show had captured the hearts of viewers across the nation.
“He instructed that our salaries be reassessed. As a result, our pay was tripled from Sh3,000 to Sh9,000 per episode, with an additional Sh1,000 to cover expenses such as uniforms and shoes. Starting from season 8, we were earning Sh10,000 per episode,” Mutua explained.
Mutua also shed light on his multifaceted role within the show, highlighting that he received multiple paychecks – one as a scriptwriter at Sh15,000 per episode, another as an actor, and yet another as a camera operator, earning Sh7,000 per episode in the latter role.
Delving into the past, Mutua reminisced about his longstanding friendship with Phillip Karanja, a journey that began during their college days. He shared their remarkable journey, from reporting to college on the same day to becoming roommates, getting cast for “Tahidi High,” and eventually being employed by Citizen TV as part of the crew.
Abel Mutua, known for his role as Freddie on “Tahidi High,” was joined by notable cast members including Phillip Karanja as Johnny, Sarah Hassan as Tanya, and Dennis Mugo as OJ, among others. These individuals collectively formed a cherished ensemble on the show alongside characters like Principal Tembo, Miss Morgan, Shishi, and more.
Mutua concluded the interview by recounting a near-death experience when he collapsed in the bathroom, sharing how exhaustion and the responsibilities of fatherhood nearly overwhelmed him.
“I fainted in the bathroom, completely naked, with only the househelp at home. She was the sole witness and had to assist me,” Mutua revealed. He attributed this incident to his overwhelming workload, which coincided with the arrival of his first child. Mutua’s dedication to providing for his family had led him to push himself to the brink, all in the name of love and responsibility.
