Kenyans have turned to social media to mourn veteran TV and theater actor Papa Shirandula.
Papa Shirandula whose real name is Charles Bukeko died Saturday morning, July 18 after a short illness.
According to his family, the actor was rushed to Karen hospital after having difficulties at home.

Kenyans expressed shock and pain after the news of his death went viral online.
Rest in peace Charles Bukeko alias Papa Shirandula. You were a self-made man who epitomised the joy and optimism of Kenyans. You made a huge contribution to the entertainment industry in Kenya. We will miss you. May God give peace, comfort and strength to your family and fans.
— Dr. Ezekiel Mutua, MBS (@EzekielMutua) July 18, 2020
Several Kenyan leaders and celebrities also sent their condolences to the family and friends of the fallen actor.
It is with great sadness that have I learnt of the death of comedian Charles Bukeko popularly known as Papa Shirandula .
— Wycliffe A. Oparanya (@GovWOparanya) July 18, 2020
The cruel hand of death has robbed the comedy industry an iconic figure whose comedy did not only entertain but was also educative to many generations. pic.twitter.com/uy5TVhZBOK
Noooo 😥 I know him as Bukeko since my stage acting days; you likely know him as Papa Shirandula. He has passed away at Karen Hospital. So sad. May he rest in peace. 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/iGUxbYvGOn
— Carol Radull (@CarolRadull) July 18, 2020
Sincere condolences to the family and friends of our colleague and friend the late Charles Bukeko a.k.a. Papa Shirandula. Rest in peace bro. pic.twitter.com/AalhZEjQjv
— Fred Obachi Machoka (@fredomachoka) July 18, 2020
What a loss to @citizentvkenya and the entire Nation and beyond. Papa Shirandula was such a gifted actor. May his Soul RIP. I suggest they now promote Njoroge to fully take up his role as the gate man and inherit the wife as well.
— Nyakwar Aris Aduwora (@Thimlich) July 18, 2020
The veteran actor was 58 at the time of his death.
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Kenyans said that the veteran actor had mentored many Kenyan artistes like Jalang’o and Wilbroda and for that, he should be appreciated.
Deeply saddened by the demise of the veteran actor Charles Bukeko a.k.a Papa Shirandula earlier today.
— Hon. Catherine Wambilianga-Mp. (@WambiliangaMp) July 18, 2020
You mentored many into acting and you were the reason most of us were glued on TV screens for your program.
Rest well Papa. pic.twitter.com/w3bpAvoMW1
Rest In Peace Charles Bukeko. Among the many things you did in media and theatre, this one is remembered all over the world!!!!! My condolences to friends and family. #RIPCharlesBukeko #Legend #RIPPapaShirandula #Brrr pic.twitter.com/ECw8qsEteG
— Maina Kageni (@ItsMainaKageni) July 18, 2020
Without Papa Shirandula, there would no Willibroda, There would be no Jalango, There would no Awinja , There would be no Willibroda and other actors. He will never be forgotten. #RipPapaShirandula pic.twitter.com/KF7FoKCIsn
— MaryAnne Wangui (@MaryAnnWanguiKE) July 18, 2020
Our condolences to Charles Bukeko’s family and fans.
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