Kenyan actor Lenana Kariba has celebrated a major career milestone after being featured in the fourth season of Netflix’s internationally acclaimed drama, Bridgerton.
Kariba confirmed the news on social media, revealing that he had kept the role a secret for nearly a year. He described the opportunity as his first acting role in the United Kingdom and a key step in his international acting journey.
“So happy to finally be able to say those words after a year of having to stay quiet. The first role I took in the UK was an epic one, and I've had the amazing opportunity to be surrounded by some of the best,” he said.
In Season 4 Part 1, which premiered in January 2026, Kariba appears in the background but has hinted at a more prominent appearance in the upcoming second part. While not a lead role, his inclusion in the show places him among a global cast and represents a significant moment for Kenyan talent on international screens.
Produced by Shondaland, Bridgerton is known for its diverse casting and global popularity. The series consistently ranks among Netflix’s most-watched shows and has a massive cultural impact worldwide.
As of late January 2026, the series ranked number 1 in over 70 countries, with previous seasons featuring in Netflix’s all-time Global Top 10 for English-language series.
Kariba has been a familiar face on Kenyan screens for over a decade, known for his roles as Nick in Single Kiasi and Reagan in Selina. His film credits include Plan B, Family Vacation, and earlier international projects such as Sense8.
After relocating to the UK with his wife, Kariba is now closer to global casting opportunities while balancing family life with his acting ambitions.
His appearance in Bridgerton adds to the growing list of Kenyan creatives making inroads into global film and television, following in the footsteps of stars like Lupita Nyong’o and Edi Gathegi.
Veteran actors Raymond Ofula, Benjamin Onyango, and Mary Oyaya have also achieved international recognition through Hollywood and streaming platforms.
Fans can expect to see Kariba again in Part 2 of Bridgerton Season 4, set to release later in February 2026.
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