Millionaires to rock bottom: Khalif Kairo, Prof Hamo, Desagu and the hidden lives, struggles of celebs

Not all that glitters is gold, or so the age-old saying goes. For many celebrities, “faking it till you make it” is not just a catchphrase—it’s a full-time job.

Appearances matter, and in today’s digital world, where success is often measured by meticulously curated Instagram posts and viral TikTok videos, it’s easy to believe that fame automatically equals financial stability.

However, beneath the polished images and glamorous lifestyles showcased online, a different reality lurks. As Kenyans often say, “Kwa ground vitu ni different”.

For most popular creatives, particularly musicians, their income largely comes from performance fees and streaming royalties. Few venture into investments beyond merchandise sales, leaving them financially vulnerable when the tides of the industry shift.

When rumours first emerged that content creator and media personality Azziad was facing financial struggles, social media went into overdrive with speculation.

Blogger Edgar Obare, who broke the story, alleged that Azziad was in debt, sparking debates on whether celebrities truly live the lives they portray online.

Rapper Wangechi took to X (formerly Twitter) to express her doubts about the lavish lifestyles flaunted by Kenyan celebrities. “Ninety per cent of Kenyan celebrities fake their lifestyle. There’s not enough money circulating in the industry for the luxury life you see being posted. Stay woke!” she posted.

Singer Daddy Owen echoed similar thoughts, stressing that financial difficulties are a reality for many Kenyans, not just celebrities. “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone. Many Kenyans are burdened by debt, relying on Fuliza (mobile loans), borrowing from friends and family without repaying, and businesses and employees alike depend on loans. Even the government survives on borrowing! Azziad’s situation is simply more sensational because she’s a celebrity. While I don’t condone living a fake life, aren’t we the same people who promoted the ‘fake it till you make it’ mentality?” he shared.

From flying high to fundraising

The legal troubles plaguing high-flying businessman Khalid Kairo forced him to close down his offices, leading him to appeal to well-wishers and close friends for funds to help him settle his debts.

“Due to legal issues, our fundraising campaign was shut down last night after crossing the USD 100,000 mark. However, all is not lost. I am directly appealing to my supporters, friends, old clients, and associates to contribute whatever amount they can to give us a fighting chance against the unknown forces sabotaging my company,” he urged.

Kairo went a step further, sharing a paybill number and promising full transparency on how the funds would be used.

Sceptics (read haters) have had a field day with Kairo, especially after he publicly announced his separation from model girlfriend Wavinya Maria.

Meanwhile, the Kenyan entertainment scene was rocked by distressing news about comedian Henry Desagu. Currently hospitalised at Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital, Desagu is fighting depression and alcoholism, both of which have taken a severe toll on his career.

Recognising the gravity of the situation, Gatundu North MP Kururia Elijah led an initiative to support Desagu’s treatment and recovery. “We will not stand by while this great boychild, Henry Desagu, whose comedy brings joy to us all, is brought down by depression and alcoholism. We will pray for his recovery, ensure he receives quality medical attention, and get our lively Desagu back,” the MP posted on social media.

A fundraising campaign has since been launched, with a target of raising Sh1 million to cover Desagu’s medical expenses.

Millionaire to rock bottom

Prof Hamo’s rise, fall and comeback

Prof Hamo, a once-beloved comedian, knows all too well how fleeting fame can be. His rise to stardom at just 28 was meteoric, making him a household name and enjoying a level of success many comedians only dream of.

“By 32, I was a national name and a multimillionaire,” he shared on Instagram. However, by the age of 39, everything had crumbled. The wealth, fame, and opportunities that once defined his success were gone, leaving him at rock bottom. “By 39, I lost it all,” he revealed in a candid post.

For many, such a fall would signal the end of the road. Yet, Prof Hamo wasn’t about to give up. With remarkable resilience and a knack for reinvention, he clawed his way back to the top. Now, at 42, he stands proud on the other side of adversity, proving that comebacks are always possible.

“At 42, I’ve bounced back from the pit. I have no idea where you are in your path, but I believe you too will make it,” he proclaimed.

Stoopid Boy ready for rehab

Stoopid Boy, the young rapper behind the hit “G Bag Na Jug,” is another rising star struggling with the pressures of fame. During an interview on The Obinna Show, the 22-year-old openly admitted to facing numerous challenges.

“This whole situation is giving me depression because music without education is tough. Music needs a lot of support. When people see me, they keep asking for money. If I don’t give any, some turn abusive. Since I released the song, I can’t even board a matatu (bus) charging Sh20, as I used to. I’ve accepted myself, and it helps reduce the pressure,” he said.

“That’s why I went public and asked for help, whether it’s going back to school or rehab. People have suggested I go to rehab, and I want to put my music on hold until May and return with a clear head,” he added.

The rise and fall of Gengetone

At its peak, Gengetone was the heartbeat of Kenya’s youth, spawning a wave of new artists whose stars rose with the hit songs they released. However, like all trends, it eventually declined, leaving many musicians struggling to sustain their careers.

“When Covid-19 hit, my song ‘Lewa’ was no longer the top song. Suddenly, there were no shows or club appearances. I found myself in a new situation, and at the same time, I began learning how to make money elsewhere. I learnt a lot from that experience, and now I own the master rights to all my work,” says Parroty.

Parroty notes that artists often get carried away by the glitterati lifestyle, forgetting to plan for their future. “Living in the moment” becomes their mantra.

“One important lesson any artist or creative should understand is that we are like farmers: there’s a time to sow and a time to reap. In between, we must put in the work. For example, between June and December, there are gigs, and that’s when we make most of our money. But with that increased income, we need to pay bills, fund studio sessions and videos, and invest in marketing. At the end of the day, there must be a Return on Investment (ROI), because this is a business too,” he shares.

Publicist Kat Mirero highlights the challenges celebrities face today in curating their public image for a perpetually connected audience.

“My experience as a music publicist in Kenya has shown me that many celebrities struggle to distinguish between their lifestyle and their art. Most now feel the pressure to publicise a curated version of their lives that their audience aspires to. The pressure to embellish—or even fake—their lifestyle has grown. Some will go to great lengths, renting cars and designer clothes to appear wealthier, even if it means breaking the bank,” she says.

Kat, who is the Head of PR and Communications at Kaka Empire Limited, has learned that vulnerability and transparency are crucial. “I understand the pressure to maintain a flawless image, but when a celebrity embraces their true self, it can have a far greater impact than any carefully crafted persona. I’ve always advised the artists I work with to be authentic, and I will continue to do so,” she asserts.

This reality underscores the importance of financial literacy, mental health support, and long-term planning for celebrities, especially those in creative industries.

As the public continues to expect a flawless lifestyle, both individuals and the industry at large must recognise the importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and resilience.

Ultimately, true success for these celebrities might not lie in their image, but in their ability to navigate life’s challenges with honesty and strength.