Malik Lemuel Mbelle, popularly known as Govi, is truly lucky to have been born to a mother who is an actress. Many Kenyans might not be aware that the young actor is the son of Suzanne Njoki, aka Karen Ithaga Riene. She is well known for her role in Mother in Law, among other films in the country.
In this segment, muranganews explores more details of Govi’s mother, her acting career, and her influence on the former Machachari actor.
Govi’s upbringing in the shadow of his mother
It seems that Govi’s mother decided to only stay behind the scenes as her son took charge of the film industry in the earlier years. This is because not very many Kenyans knew that Govi was the biological son of Suzanne Njoki until 2017.
This is when the ex-Machachari Kid actor introduced his mother through his social media handles. It was during a family date that he also showcased his younger sister.
Since then, Govi has been posting his mother’s photos on social media while celebrating events such as her birthday and Mother’s Day.
Govi’s rise to fame
Malik Lemmy ‘Govi’ became popular in Kenya at a very young age. This is after he featured in Makutano Junction while only 5 years old, in 2005. A few years later, the talented actor auditioned at Machachari, where he became among the lead actors.
It was at Machachari that Govi made his name and became a well-known actor across the country.
Meet Govi’s mother, Karen Ithaga Riene
Govi’s mom, Suzanne Njoki, is a veteran when it comes to the film industry in Kenya. She featured in Mother in Law during its pioneering years on Citizen TV.
“My mom was already in mother-in-law (on Citizen TV). We started shooting the pilots once the other youth were cast, and it was pitched to Citizen TV.” Govi recalls
In her most recent role in the movie industry, she plays Karen Ithaga Riene, where she portrays an ill-hearted lady. It is in this role that she has gained more fans, with most loving her while others hate her.
Additionally, she is a producer and director, and she has used her knowledge and wisdom to mentor her son, Govi, and daughter.
How Suzanne Njoki has influenced Govi’s acting career
Karen Ithaga Riene has not only been a mother to her son Malik Lemmy but also a manager.
While speaking to the media a few years ago, Govi revealed that his mother has played a huge role in his life and career.
For instance, Suzanne Njoki has guided Malik since he was a kid actor. She has played a huge role in shaping his acting career, as she has acting experience and, most importantly, motherly love.
“Working with my mom has been a good thing. If it were not for her, maybe pride would have gotten into my head.” Malik Lemmy
As a result, the young actor has had a different (positive) path compared to his peers in the film industry.
Some of his colleagues might not have grown to greater heights like him, thanks to his mother’s advice and tips.
Her impact on Govi’s career
Malik Lemmy, alias Govi, has had a huge advantage growing up with a celebrity mother throughout his career. He believes that his mother has always stood with him during both good and bad moments.
In addition, she has always availed herself when opportunities come,telling him the best deals and those that could hurt his value in the movie industry.
Despite existing in the movie industry almost at the same time, Govi and his mother have had different career paths
For instance, during most of his career, Govi played the role of a kid from the ghetto, while his mother was a lady from a wealthy family.
As a result, the former Machachari actor and his mother have become successful through their unique acting style, which has captured different audiences in the country.
