Kenya, July 15 -- The Kenyan entertainment industry is reeling from the sudden death of KK Mwenyewe whose real name is Zakaria Kariuki, a beloved comedian celebrated for his spot-on impersonations of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, nicknamed "Riggy G."
The 24-year-old content creator passed away on the evening of July 14, 2025, at Kiambu Level 4 Hospital following a short illness, leaving fans and fellow creators heartbroken.
News of his untimely passing, confirmed by close friend and collaborator Kafengo, has sparked an outpouring of grief across social media, with many mourning the loss of a talent who brought joy through his viral skits.
KK Mwenyewe rose to fame in 2022 through his humorous TikTok and Facebook videos, where he masterfully mimicked Gachagua's mannerisms, fashion sense, and distinctive accent.
With over 1.1 million TikTok followers and 412,000 on Facebook, his skits, often featuring oversized coats and a comical potbelly, resonated with Kenyans for their relatability and wit.
His sudden death, attributed to chest complications, has left the creative community in shock, with details about his brief illness still emerging.
Sources close to the comedian noted that his condition deteriorated rapidly, and images of him in the hospital have circulated widely online, amplifying public concern.
Born in Lari, Kiambu County, KK Mwenyewe was a third-year computer science student at Kisii University at the time of his passing.
Despite his academic pursuits, his passion for comedy shone through, earning him a massive following and endorsements from figures like Andrew Kibe, who raised over KSh 350,000 in 2022 to support his career and education.
KK's skits, including a viral video where he jokingly questioned his mother about his resemblance to Gachagua, showcased his ability to blend satire with social commentary, making him a voice for Kenya's Gen Z.
His last post on July 4, 2025, featured a skit about forex trading, hinting at his ambition to diversify his content.
The news of KK's death has prompted tributes from fans, politicians, and fellow entertainers. Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah described him as a "talented comedian whose voice resonated with a restless generation," praising his courage in using humour to address societal issues.
Fans expressed regret that KK never met Gachagua, whose persona he popularised, with one user noting, "He made Riggy G a household name."
The comedian's sudden passing has also reignited discussions about the fragility of life and the need to support young creatives, with many calling for better healthcare access for Kenya's youth.
KK Mwenyewe's death comes at a time when Kenya is preparing to host the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2025), an event meant to showcase national pride.
His loss shows the challenges faced by young talents navigating fame and financial pressures, as evidenced by his 2022 appeal for KSh 10,900 to clear university fees.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja and others had stepped in to support him, but his sudden illness highlights the unpredictability of life. Social media posts reflect a mix of sorrow and admiration, with users sharing clips of his skits and urging others to celebrate his legacy.
The comedian's death has also sparked conversations about the toll of online fame. While KK's skits brought laughter, his rapid rise exposed him to scrutiny and expectations. "No one checked up on him?" one fan asked, referencing his final days of silence on social media before his passing.
The entertainment industry is now reflecting on how to better support young creators, with calls for mental health resources and financial stability.
KK's legacy, however, remains intact, with his skits continuing to circulate as a testament to his creativity and connection with Kenyans.
As investigations into the cause of his sudden illness continue, tributes pour in for KK Mwenyewe, whose humour united Kenyans across divides.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.