Patrick Oketch, popularly known as Charlie from the hit Citizen TV show Mother in Law, has finally spoken about his role in the series, why he decided to leave, and the challenges of portraying a character completely different from his real life.
Speaking in an interview with Lynne Ngugi, Charlie revealed that after acting on Mother in Law for 12 years—and even serving as the scriptwriter for several seasons—he felt it was time to quit. The main reason, he explained, was a sense of being undervalued. “I felt worthless, and my efforts weren’t recognized or appreciated as expected,” he said. He also mentioned going above and beyond to ensure the show’s quality, yet his dedication was not reflected in his payslip or acknowledgment from the network.
Charlie, along with Selina, famously known as Kate in the series, were once the faces of Mother in Law, making the show engaging and memorable for audiences. His portrayal of a drunkard uncle became iconic, with some viewers even mistaking him in real life for an alcoholic. In reality, however, Charlie has never consumed alcohol or drugs. He described himself as a sober, responsible family man who ensures his family is well taken care of despite the struggles he faces.
He further stated that his talent as an actor allowed him to play the role convincingly, but the public’s identification of him with the drunkard character sometimes overshadowed his real-life persona and accomplishments.
Charlie’s story highlights the often unseen pressures in the entertainment industry, where dedication and talent may go unrecognized, and public perception can blur the lines between an actor’s work and personal life. His candid revelations provide insight into the sacrifices actors make and the importance of acknowledging their contributions.
