Mother-in-law characters in film and television have long fascinated and entertained audiences.
Often shown as overbearing, meddling, or loving, these characters play a key role in family dynamics and storylines.
From classic sitcoms to modern dramas, actors portraying mother-in-laws add depth and complexity to their roles.
They often challenge stereotypes and make the characters more relatable.
This article looks at the actors who have brought these characters to life, exploring their contributions and the impact they’ve had on audiences and popular culture.
Mother in Law Actors
Since its debut in 2006, the program has featured many talented actors and actresses. Some characters have left the show, while others remain.Interstingly, many fans still don’t know the real names of these actors.
The Synopsis
Mother-in-Law is a weekly drama series that has aired since 2006 on Kenya’s Citizen TV. The show is divided into episodes, each focusing on different family issues.
Set in a typical middle-class Kenyan home, the series explores the dynamics within a family
. It highlights the relationship between a mother-in-law, her husband, sons, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren, with a special focus on the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law’s bond.
Mother In Law Cast Names
Who are the actors behind the beloved Mother-in-Law characters and what are their real names? Many fans don’t know much about them, including their true identities.
Charity – Elizabeth Wanjiru
Actress Elizabeth Wanjiru, also known as Charity Mwamba, has starred in the popular TV show for over ten years. A retired teacher, she plays the prominent role of a mother-in-law.
Elizabeth is a graduate of the University of Nairobi with a Bachelor of Arts degree and a postgraduate diploma.
Outside of acting, she is a proud mother of three children—two daughters and a son—and has 11 grandchildren.
Mwamba – Peter Muriithi Maina
Peter Muriithi Maina plays the charismatic and level-headed father-in-law in the popular TV show. His acting journey began in primary school at Morison School, Bahati, in Nairobi. He started acting seriously in the 1980s.
Apart from Mother-in-Law, Peter has starred in other well-known plays like Mama Benga, Pambazuko, and Naomi. His outstanding role as Mwamba earned him two nominations for Best Actor at the Kalasha Awards, in 2009 and 2010.
Charlie – Peter Oketch Odhiambo
Peter Oketch, known for his love of liquor, is a main actor on the show. He plays Selina’s husband, Olive’s father, and Jack and Robert’s brother.
Born and raised in Mathare, Peter is a trained teacher. He worked as a P1 teacher at Thogoto and in the Soweto slums before leaving teaching to focus on acting.
Selina – Catherine Kamau Karanja
Selina, from Mother-in-Law, is played by Catherine Kamau Karanja. She portrays Charlie’s wife and a stepmother to Olive. Catherine has won the hearts of many fans in this role.
A Harpic ambassador, Catherine started acting in high school. She describes herself as an actress, social media influencer, and Emcee.
Olive – Idah Alisha Wanyoike
Idah Wanyoike is an amazing actress on the show, playing Olive, a spoiled brat alongside Selina and Angie. Olive is the daughter of Charlie Mwamba.
Idah got the role of Olive after performing in a stage play called There Goes The Bride, where she played Polly Parkins, alongside a fellow Mother-in-Law cast member.
Mustafa – Andrew Muthure
Mustafa, known for wearing the ‘Leso’ in Mother-in-Law, is played by Andrew Muthure. He has been part of the drama for over ten years.
Andrew was born in Kangemi, a low-income area, and grew up in Kibera. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing from Africa Nazarene University and was an assistant director for the popular Makutano Junction TV drama.
Rasta – John Githui
Rasta, from Mother-in-Law, is one of the most talented actors on the show. He is in love with his boss’s daughter, Tina, and together, they provide great entertainment for their fans
The couple always triumphs over their conflicts, making them one of the best TV couples.
Tina – Jackie Mungai
Jackie plays Tina, a no-nonsense sister to Mike and Angie, who secretly dates Rasta, a worker in their home.
Off-screen, Tina is a teacher. She attended Technical Primary School in Murang’a, then went to Kahuhia High School. After that, she joined Eregi Teachers Training College, where she earned a teaching diploma.
Lisa – Faith Mary Nyaga
Lisa plays Robert Mwamba’s devoted wife on the show. She is one of the most recognizable faces on television.
While keeping her life private, Faith Mary Nyaga, the actress behind Lisa, is also a mother to her lovely daughter, Turi.
Ninja – Jeff Okello
Jeff Okello is the actor who plays Ninja, the watchman, on the show. He has made a name for himself in the local entertainment scene.
Born in Huruma and raised in Kariobangi, Jeff has gained many fans due to Ninja’s charisma.
Other characters With Minor Roles
Mike is played by Mike Okinyi.
Robert is played by John Mweu.
Angie is played by Farida Muhindi.
Alisson, Robert’s wife, is played by Naomi Kamau.
Marion Chike, Selina’s co-wife, is played by Marion Wamboi.