‘The Chocolate Empire’, New Crime Drama From the Creators of ‘Single Kiasi’ and ‘Kash Money’ to Premiere on Showmax

The Chocolate Empire, a new crime drama from Insignia Productions – the creators Single Kiasi and Kash Money – is coming to Showmax on 20 March.

Set against the backdrop of Nairobi’s elite circles, The Chocolate Empire follows JB Mauzo (Jimmi Gathu (Kina), a once-powerful businessman freshly released from prison. As JB works to rebuild his life and mend his fractured family, he secretly operates a high-end escort service from his exclusive cigar club. His clandestine empire and personal life collide when he meets Lily (Ann Muli, A Familiar Christmas), a young woman from a struggling family, who takes a job at JB’s club to help her mother make ends meet, unaware of the illegal operations taking place.

The show features ensemble cast that includes Sanaipei Tande (Kina), Kalasha winner Mumbi Maina (Second Family), Kalasha nominee Jackie Kaboi (Single Kiasi), Escay Gitonga (Kam U Stay), Kael Njihia (Country Queen, Salem), Linda Tyagi, Michael Sanuri (Kiu), Angie Magio (Selina), Kennedy Musumba, Mwaniki Mageria (Foods of Kenya), Aleks Kamau (Volume, Faithless), Amalie Chopetta (You Again), and Derek Bbanga (Big Girl Small World).

Supporting the cast are Ivy Wanjiku (Sanura), Makena Kahuha (Subterranea), rapper Xtatic (Igiza), Palma Lumbasi (Borderline), Everlyne Kanane, Sharon Muriithi, and Mercy Kavulani as the “chocolates”.

Co-produced and co-directed by Philippe Bresson and Grace Kahaki from Insignia Productions, The Chocolate Empire examines the fragile bonds of family, the different shades of love, the quest for redemption, and the high cost of deceit.

“This is darker and bolder than anything we have done before,” says producer Grace Kahaki. “We love a challenge and are absolutely dedicated to elevating our craft. We approached this production with care – it’s important to tell stories authentically, so we spoke to people who live in these worlds. Jimmy Gathu was always JB in my mind. Having worked with him on Single Kiasi, I knew he could bring JB’s charm, menace, and complexity to life. Somehow, you root for JB, even when he is wrong.”

“This is the biggest cast we ever worked with. We have produced and directed more than 10 TV shows, and the casting process for The Chocolate Empire was by far the longest. We knew what we wanted and didn’t settle until we got it. It is an incredible mix of fresh talent and industry legends. I’m completely in love with this cast.” adds Grace.

Watch the teaser trailer below.