My aim is to become a pastor by the end of this year - JB Masanduku

In this candid interview, JB opens up about depression, rehab, rediscovering his faith and charting a new course in life.

1. How would you describe your 2024?

2024 has been pretty dramatic for me, to say the least. A lot has happened, both good and bad.

On the one hand, I moved forward by starting work on several projects, but on the other hand, I had to face some dark moments.

I fell into depression and ended up in rehab in March or April. Luckily I only stayed for a month and by God's grace I came out stronger.

After rehab I went back to work. I did two Showmax projects to reflect on how I had spent money unwisely in the past and collaborated with Maryanne Karanja on a project called Nilichoma, which is a very personal story.

I have also started writing a comedy special which I plan to perform in March 2025.

This special is very personal; it's about my journey and turning 35.

Apart from the comedy special, I am working on two other shows this year.

One is for TV and the other is a big one with Netflix.

Yes, Netflix! It is a huge milestone for me and I am beyond grateful.

I am also taking a break from alcohol, I have been sober for four months now. I wouldn't say I've stopped completely, but I'm taking things one day at a time.

2. Looking back, what is your biggest regret?

Honestly, my biggest regret is my journey with alcohol. It cost me a lot, my family, my career progress and even my mental health.

Another thing I regret is slacking off sometimes.

Someone once told me "hard work beats talent", and that stuck with me. I've always had talent, but I haven't always put in the hard work. I feel that I am not where I should be, but I am determined to change that by working extra hard.

3. What do you think has contributed to your problems with alcohol?

I would say it was a combination of factors.

Sometimes it was peer pressure, sometimes it was financial stress.

But mostly it was my mind running faster than it should. I get stressed easily and alcohol became my coping mechanism. Another challenge was the lack of support from my family. They never fully accepted my career in comedy. Being an orphan made things even harder, but I learned to rely on God.

4. You mentioned that you are now studying theology. What inspired this decision?

The inspiration came from my late father, Masanduku arap Smit (famous for his role in the TV show Vioja Mahakamani).

He was a well-known figure who eventually became an evangelist.

Before he passed away, he had established strong links with prominent evangelists such as Teresia Wairimu, Julian Kyula and JB Masinde. I feel a deep sense of responsibility to finish what he started.

It is something I have always wanted to do and now feels like the right time.

I started theology classes in November 2024 and am already making good progress.

My aim is to become a pastor by the end of this year. It is a calling that has always been in my heart and I am looking forward to this new chapter.

5. What do you celebrate most about being in the entertainment industry?

The industry has helped me grow, especially financially.

Even though I am divorced, I have been able to support my ex-wife and children.

I would not say I am wealthy, but I am comfortable and I am grateful for that.

One thing I regret is not being tech-savvy. Nowadays everything is on social media - TikTok, Instagram - and I was more old school. I would do a show and it would be on TV or in the papers.

This year I want to change that by being more vocal and active online.

I also recorded a song recently. It is not out yet because we are still mastering it, but I plan to release it soon with the help of DJs like Shinski and Kalonje.

I also plan to train young actors as I am now a certified drama teacher at Little Fields Academy.

This is the year of restoration and I am here to restore the 10 years I have lost. With God's help, I will do it.

6. How do you balance your career and being a father?

Balancing my career and being a father is difficult, especially since I am divorced.

I miss my children every day. My son is 11 and my daughter is nine. If it were up to me, I would be with them all the time. Unfortunately, I can only see them when their mother agrees.

Despite the challenges, I remain hopeful. My goal is to rebuild my relationship with them and be more present in their lives. I also hope that they will learn from my mistakes. This is one of the reasons why I made the show Nilichoma, which was a very personal project.

I wanted young people, including my children, to learn from my journey and not make the same mistakes I did.