Kenyan actor and singer Pascal Tokodi, best known for his role as Nelson in the Swahili telenovela Selina, has opened up about the international stars he dreams of working with in future projects.
Speaking to Mpasho during a MultiChoice event, Tokodi revealed that he has a deep admiration for several acclaimed actors and filmmakers from both Hollywood and Nollywood.
He expressed a strong desire to one day collaborate with them—or at the very least, meet them for creative discussions.
“In Hollywood, I admire Denzel Washington and Tom Cruise. I love Tom’s consistency. He’s a great motivator and I’d love to work with him,” Tokodi said. “I also admire director Ryan Coogler. And in Nigeria, it’s Ramsey Nouah—I’ve liked him since I was a kid.”
Ryan Coogler is a celebrated American filmmaker known for his work on Fruitvale Station (2013), Creed (2015), and Marvel blockbusters Black Panther (2018) and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022). He is also known for his frequent collaborations with actor Michael B. Jordan.
Tom Cruise, a household name in global cinema, is revered for his decades-long career filled with high-octane performances and box office hits, while Nigerian actor Ramsey Nouah is a veteran in African cinema and winner of the 2010 Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in The Figurine.
Tokodi says these actors have shaped his journey and continue to inspire him. “They’ve been role models throughout my career, and it would be a dream come true to work with them someday,” he said.
When it comes to advice for young, aspiring actors, Tokodi emphasizes hard work, consistency, and humility.
“There’s no shortcut. You have to put in the work. Be consistent and always do your research when given a role. Know your lines, be prepared, and respect people’s time on set,” he advised. “If you stay focused, the industry will reward you in due time.”
Although Tokodi has featured in several films available on Netflix, he admits that his goal is to appear on the global streaming platform in a major lead role that solidifies his presence internationally. “I’m making sure I stay productive—not just busy—so that when someone notices, it’s because I’m truly putting in the work,” he said. “It feels good when people tell me they saw me in a film. That recognition means a lot.”
Tokodi rose to fame through his role in Selina, the popular Swahili telenovela that aired on Maisha Magic East from 2018 to 2022.
The show tells the story of a bright young woman forced into servitude by her stepmother despite her academic ambitions.
Tokodi portrayed Nelson, Selina’s love interest, a role that earned him widespread acclaim across Kenya and beyond.
In addition to acting, Tokodi is also an accomplished singer, further cementing his status as one of Kenya’s most versatile entertainers.
Watch the interview below:
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