Coco Kariuki - Cover Image

Coco Kariuki is an actress born in Kenya and now living in Los Angeles. She was recently interviewed by Famo Celebrity Magazine and below is the Q&A session we had with her.

Welcome Coco, what has been some of the best advice you have been given in your career so far?

The best advice and lesson I’ve learned is that it’s about the journey, not the outcome. Acting is an unpredictable career, and you can’t always control the results. What you can control is the effort you put into your craft and the joy you find in the process. That mindset has helped me stay grounded and focused on becoming the best artist I can be.

As an actor, do you have a favorite medium… TV, film, stage?

Each medium brings its own unique challenges and rewards, and I enjoy working in all of them. The stage offers an unmatched energy and connection with a live audience, TV allows for character development over time, and film is so intimate and detail oriented. Each format teaches me something new about the craft, and I love the versatility of moving between them.

What do you do to prepare for an audition?

For me, preparation starts with research. I break down the script to understand the character’s world-who they are, what they want, and the circumstances they’re in. I focus on the subtext and make creative choices that feel authentic while leaving room to adapt to direction. I also ensure l’m physically and mentally prepared because auditions are as much about presence as they are about performance.

How important is it to go beyond the lines of a script? 

It’s really important to go beyond the lines because the script is just the starting point. The real depth of a character comes from what’s not written-the emotions, the thoughts, and the motivations behind what they’re saying. The words alone don’t tell the whole story. By digging deeper and bringing your own interpretation, you add life and authenticity to the role, making it feel more real and relatable.

What 3 things do you live by?

1. Curiosity: I believe in being a constant student of life and my craft. 

2. Authenticity: Staying true to who I am and bringing that truth into my work. 

3. Resilience: This industry is full of challenges, but every obstacle is an opportunity to grow.

How important is building a creative community to you? 

Building a creative community is absolutely essential to me. There’s a Swahili saying, “Haba na haba hujaza kibaba,” which translates to “Little by little fills the container.” It speaks to the idea that when we come together, even in small ways, we build something meaningful and powerful. Acting is inherently collaborative, and having a supportive network of creatives helps to inspire and push me forward. Community is where we find strength, shared opportunities, and the collective energy to create and thrive together.

How important is learning what makes you unique as an actor?

Your uniqueness is your greatest strength. As an actor, there’s no one else who has your exact experiences, perspective, or instincts. Learning what sets you apart helps you bring something special to every role, and it allows you to carve out a space in the industry that’s truly your own.

We have seen you on so many red carpets. Does it ever get old?

Red carpets are incredible opportunities to connect with other creatives in the industry. It’s not just about the glamor-it’s about celebrating storytelling, meeting people who inspire you, and opening doors to new collaborations. They’re a reminder of how powerful this community can be and how much we can learn from each other.

How do you stay motivated?

My motivation comes from my deep love for storytelling and my faith. I believe that every opportunity I receive is part of a bigger plan, and trusting God gives me the strength and resilience to keep going, even when things get tough. Whenever I watch a performance or read a script that moves me, I’m reminded of the power of this craft and the impact it can have. I also stay motivated by reflecting on how far l’ve come and focusing on the impact I want to have. Surrounding myself with passionate, driven people also keeps that fire alive.

Would you ever dabble in producing or directing?

Absolutely. Producing and directing would allow me to take a more active role in shaping stories and championing underrepresented voices. I’m passionate about telling stories that resonate globally, and stepping into those roles would give me the opportunity to bring new perspectives to life.

How can people find and follow your journey?

You can follow my journey on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes insights and check out my IMDb profile for details on my career and upcoming projects.

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