You all know him, right? The funny stand-up comedian who has become a household name not only in Kenya, but also across Africa.
His journey from a young comedian to “The President of Comedy in Africa” is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and adaptability in the ever-evolving entertainment industry.
Let us look at Eric Omondi’s life and facts that shape him today.
Also Read: Who is Trisha Khalid – Biography, Relationship and Net Worth
Eric Omondi Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Eric Otieno Omondi |
| Popular As | Eric Omondi |
| Date of Birth/Age | March 9, 1982 (42 Years as of 2024) |
| Profession | Comedian, Activist |
| Birthplace | Kisumu, Kenya |
| Net Worth | Not Known |
| Famous Roles | Ruby in Kovu and Trisha in Citizen TV’s Becky |
| School | Kondele Primary School Kisumu Boys High School Daystar University |
| Social Media | Instagram TikTok YouTube |
| Family | Married to: Lynn Njihia Children: Daughter Kyla Omondi with Lynn Njihia Son Zaheer with Jacque Maribe, Siblings: Late Joseph Omondi, Late Fred Omondi, Irene Omondi |
Eric Omondi Net Worth and Career Achievements
Let’s begin with the juicy part. How much is Eric Omondi worth?
When questioned about his financial status, Omondi has remained strategically vague while hinting at significant wealth. He famously stated,
“I cannot reveal my net worth because my family will be on my neck asking why I did not do this or that for them.”
When pressed about whether his net worth might be around 10 million Kenyan shillings, he dismissively responded, suggesting his wealth far exceeded such figures and claiming he could financially support other prominent artists like Bien and Khaligraph for up to 35 years.
While Eric Omondi maintains a degree of privacy regarding his exact net worth, his success and financial standing have frequently been subjects of public discussion and occasional controversy.
Eric Omodi Biography : Early Life and Education
Eric Omondi Biography, Early Life, Net Worth and Facts Infographic
Born on March 9, 1982, Eric Otieno Omondi has established himself as one of Kenya’s most prominent comedians. His educational journey began at Kondele Primary School before he advanced to Kisumu Boys High School for his O-levels.
During his high school years, he shared classrooms with individuals who would also go on to achieve prominence in various fields, including controversial politician Babu Owino and Kenya 15s captain Andrew Amonde.
Following his secondary education, Omondi pursued higher learning at Daystar University, where he studied Mass Communication and Journalism, laying the groundwork for his future in the entertainment industry.
Family Background
As the second-born in a family of four siblings from his mother’s side, Omondi grew up in a polygamous household where his father, a chief inspector and OCS in Kisumu, had five wives. His mother held the position of fourth wife.
Tragedy has touched the Omondi family multiple times in recent years. His elder brother Joseph passed away in 2018, and more recently, his younger brother Fred Omondi, who had also found success in comedy, died in a road accident involving a PSV and the motorcycle he was riding.
Eric’s surviving sister, Irene Omondi, is based in Germany, while many of his step-siblings from his father’s other wives reside abroad, returning occasionally for family visits.
Rise to Fame
Omondi’s ris to stardom began on the popular Kenyan television show “Churchill Show,” hosted by Daniel Ndambuki on NTV since 2008.
His debut on this platform marked the beginning of a remarkable career that would see him expand beyond the confines of stand-up comedy into acting, producing, and entrepreneurship. Through his unique style and ability to connect with audiences, Omondi quickly established himself as a leading figure in African comedy, with his influence extending far beyond Kenya’s borders.
Career Building and Professional Growth
While Eric Omondi’s breakthrough on “Churchill Show” opened initial doors, it was his strategic approach to building his brand that truly set him apart.
Following his television success, Omondi expertly leveraged social media platforms to expand his reach, creating viral skits. His natural ability to adapt to changing media landscapes has been crucial to his enduring relevance in the entertainment industry.
As his reputation grew, Omondi diversified his portfolio significantly. He ventured into various television shows and films, showcasing his versatility as a performer and proving that his talents extended far beyond stand-up comedy.
Eric Omondi as An Activist
Eric Omondi is more involved in activism since February 2023. He emerged as a vocal social activist leading a protest that would mark a new chapter in his public life.
Together with 16 other concerned citizens, Omondi staged a demonstration outside Kenya’s Parliament buildings in Nairobi, targeting the escalating cost of living that was affecting millions of Kenyans.
The protests are mostly about:
1. Bringing national attention to the issues of cost of living and youth unemployment
2. Demonstrating the potential for public figures to leverage their influence for social causes
3. Highlighting the challenges faced by peaceful protesters in Kenya
10 Facts About Eric Omondi
Known for his distinctive style and fearless approach to humor, Omondi has successfully navigated the transition from television to digital platforms, amassing millions of followers across social media and YouTube.
Here are little known facts about the comedian:
1. Eric Omondi is 42 years as of 2024
Born on March 9, 1982, Eric Otieno Omondi has established himself as one of Kenya’s most prominent comedians.
His March birthday puts him in distinguished company, sharing the birth month with several Kenyan luminaries including Academy Award-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o, soccer star Michael Olunga, and popular musicians Wahu and Sanaipei Tande. The month also coincides with the birthdays of politician Wycliffe Oparanya and the late cabinet minister Robert Ouko.
2. Omondi’s Ancestral Home is in Kondele
Eric Omondi’s roots trace back to Kondele, a vibrant area strategically located south of Riat Hills and north of Manyatta in Kisumu County. This region has produced other notable personalities, including Felix Odiwour, better known as Jalango, who pursued political ambitions as a Langatta MP aspirant.
Interestingly, about 60 kilometers westward along the Kenya-Uganda highway lies Nyang’oma Kogelo village, famous for being the ancestral home of former US President Barack Obama, highlighting the rich cultural significance of the broader region.
3. Comedian Eric Omondi Family is Polygamous
During an interview on Jalango TV, Eric openly discussed his family background, revealing his upbringing in a traditional polygamous Luo household. His father, William Oduor, maintained five wives, with Eric’s mother being the fourth.
4. Eric Omondi’s Father was a Policeman and Mother a Business Lady
Eric’s father, William Oduor, had a distinguished career in law enforcement, progressing from a chief inspector to eventually becoming the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) of Kisumu Central. Meanwhile, his mother, Margaret Omondi Juma, was an enterprising businesswoman who owned multiple successful establishments.
5. Eric Omondi is a Second-Born child in a Family of 13 siblings
Within the extensive family structure of William Oduor’s five wives and 13 children, Eric holds the position of second-born among his full siblings. His mother Margaret bore four children: the late Joseph (firstborn), Eric, the late Fred Omondi (was also a comedian), and their sister Rose.
6. Omondi is an Electronic Media/Communication Graduate
Eric’s educational journey began at Kondele Primary School for his early education before transferring to Lake Primary School, where he completed his primary education. His academic prowess earned him a spot at the prestigious Kisumu Boys High School.
After successfully completing his KCSE exams in 2002, Eric enrolled at Daystar University in August 2003. Despite facing various challenges, he persevered and ultimately graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Electronic Media/Communication.
7. A scholarship from Daystar University Saved Eric
Eric’s early university experience was marked by financial instability. He managed to complete his first semester examinations through what he describes as miraculous circumstances, only to face immediate summoning afterward.
Rather than expulsion, the university opted for a one-year suspension. The turning point came in 2005 when Eric was awarded a full scholarship to Daystar University, enabling him to resume his studies and eventually graduate in 2010.
8. Churchill met Eric Omondi in an Event at Daystar University
The fateful meeting between Eric and Daniel “Churchill” Ndambuki occurred during an event at Daystar University where Eric served as the Master of Ceremonies (MC).
Eric’s natural comedic talent and stage presence caught Churchill’s attention, leading to what would become a significant professional relationship in Kenya’s comedy scene. This chance encounter would prove to be a turning point in Eric’s career, though it would take some time for the full impact to materialize.
9. Eric Omondi joined Churchill Show in 2008
After their initial meeting, it took two years before Churchill reached out to Eric with a professional opportunity. Eric’s journey with the show wasn’t immediate success – he had to wait patiently through 12 episodes of Churchill Live before getting his breakthrough.
His persistence paid off when he finally made his debut appearance in episode 13. This marked the beginning of Eric’s regular appearances on Churchill Show, which would become a launching pad for his comedy career.
10. The Broke Eric Omondi Rose to Fame Within a Month
Within just four episodes of appearing on Churchill Show, Eric Omondi had become a household name in Kenya. However, this rapid ascent to fame was not matched by financial success. The show unexpectedly went on a two-year break, leaving Eric in a precarious position.
11. Eric Omondi’s KTN Show “Hawayuni” Failed
During Churchill Show’s break, Eric was approached by Kenya Television Network (KTN) to host a show called Hawayuni. The opportunity seemed like a lifeline, and Eric received an advance payment for the show. Unfortunately, the program struggled with poor ratings and was canceled after only three episodes.
12. The Return of Churchill Show Revived Eric Omondi
Eric Omondi fortunes changed with the announcement of Churchill Live’s return. This second chance proved to be the turning point Eric needed, and he has since maintained a more stable financial position. On a personal note, Eric is the father of a son named Zahari and was previously in a relationship with well-known television personality Jackie Maribe, though they kept their romance largely private.
Key Takeaway
Throughout his career, Eric Omondi has demonstrated a keen ability to connect with audiences through his unique brand of humor, often addressing social issues and cultural issues with wit and charm. His success extends beyond the borders of Kenya, making him a pan-African comedy icon.
