Kenyan actor Lenana Kariba has revealed that he featured in the fourth season of Netflix’s global hit drama series Bridgerton, marking his first-ever acting role in the United Kingdom.
Kariba confirmed the appearance through a social media post, saying he had kept the information under wraps for nearly a year due to contractual restrictions.
“So happy to finally be able to say those words after a year of having to stay quiet. The first role I took in the UK was an epic one and I’ve had the amazing opportunity to be surrounded by some of the best,” he said.
The actor appeared in the background during Part One of Bridgerton Season 4, which premiered in January 2026, and hinted that viewers may spot him more prominently in the upcoming second part. While brief, the role places Kariba among the global cast of one of Netflix’s most-watched series.
Bridgerton is widely celebrated for its inclusive and diverse casting, making Kariba’s involvement a notable moment for Kenyan representation on the international stage.
Exclusively available on Netflix, the period drama ranks among the platform’s most successful English-language series of all time.
As of January 2026, Bridgerton Season 4 Part One topped Netflix’s global charts in more than 70 countries. Earlier seasons have also featured prominently in Netflix’s all-time Global Top 10, with Season One ranking seventh and Season Three ninth.
Despite his brief appearance in Bridgerton, Kariba is a veteran of Kenyan television. He is best known for his role as Nick in Single Kiasi and for portraying Reagan in the long-running telenovela Selina. His film credits include Plan B and Family Vacation, alongside earlier appearances in international productions such as Sense8.
The actor has previously credited his wife for playing a key role in his creative process, revealing that he often discusses scripts with her before taking on roles.
“My wife and I always go through scripts together before I shoot anything. She really is the most understanding person when it comes to my job,” Kariba said in a past interview.
Kariba now joins fellow Kenyan actors such as Edi Gathegi and Lupita Nyong’o, alongside veterans Raymond Ofula, Benjamin Onyango, and Mary Oyaya, who have successfully broken into global film and television productions.