African SVoD service Showmax has picked up Kenyan drama Monica for its third season.

The hit drama series was first released in 2018 and will premiere on Showmax in early 2021. It stars Brenda Wairimu and screen legend Raymond Ofula.

Currently in production, the series follows an ambitious social climber (Wairimu) determined to escape her life in the ghetto. She meets the affluent Jiwes family, led by patriarch Robert Jiwe (Ofula), the governor of the fictitious South City.

Producer Scolly Cheruto said: “With season three, fans can expect a grander season, a more intriguing story and a surprise celebrity cast joining the production.

“Monica’s story as a strong woman struggling to make it in a male-dominated world is one that Kenyan women can resonate with. Cunning as she may be, she’s actually a hard worker who does everything in her power to get what she wants. She may not be wealthy or privileged but she’s confident enough to reach her goal.”

It also features stars including Ephy Saint (Tahidi High), Joyce Maina (Aisha), Fidel Maithya (Selina), Sam Komora (Aziza), Torome Sision (Kona) and Melvin Alusa (The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind).

Yolisa Phahle, CEO of connected video at Showmax parent MultiChoice said: “Alongside Showmax’s Kenyan line-up of AMVCA-winning films like 18 Hours and The Flesh Business, Monica S3 reaffirms our commitment to the Kenyan film and television industry. We are an African company making great entertainment for Africans.”

Monica was nominated for Best TV Drama and Best Lead Actress in a TV Drama (for Brenda Wairimu) at the 2019 Kalasha Awards.

tagged in: Brenda Wairimu, Monica, Raymond Ofula, Scolly Cheruto