Renowned Tahidi High actor Xavier Jerry Nato passed away after a prolonged battle with kidney disease.
Nato’s passing was confirmed by his brother on Tuesday, December 31, who sent out a distraught message mourning him.
“Kabau, I hear I have to be strong but bro you’ve taken away every bit of strength I have. How do I accept you are no more? When does this pain stop? Rest easy X-man. Love you always,” the brother, Davis Ivor wrote on social media.
Kenyans.co.ke has learnt that the actor had a kidney ailment, which accelerated after he suffered a stroke.
Former Tahidi High actor Xavier Nato. PHOTO/ Courtesy.
The celebrated actor passed away weeks after his family made a public appeal on social media in November, seeking the public’s help in facilitating his medical expenses. At the time, the family revealed the actor was in need of specialised treatment and care.
The Kenya Theatre Awards also confirmed Nato’s passing as they described him as a talented actor who left a significant mark on the Kenyan entertainment scene.
“We are sad to announce the demise of one of Kenya’s prolific thespians, Xavier Jerry Nato, after a long illness bravely borne,” their statement read.
Tributes have since started pouring in from Kenyans, including politician Cleophas Malala, who decried the loss of Nato, whom he described as a close friend.
Before his illness, Nato was a popular figure in the Kenyan entertainment scene as an actor and behind the scenes. He produced some impressive works of art in the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival, with his efforts earning him awards in the process, including the KTA’s Inaugural Best Playwright Award in 2022.
As far as his acting career is concerned, Nato gained nationwide recognition for his role in the popular drama series Wash Wash, which aired between 2008 and 2010.
Away from the screen, the late actor also founded Millaz Productions, which nurtured young talent aspiring to break into the Kenyan creative industry.
Neto’s death is the latest high-profile tragedy in the country, coming just days after the sporting fraternity was hit with the passing of volleyball legend Janet Wanja.
Wanja passed away in December, just weeks after her family revealed she was suffering from gallbladder cancer.
Xavier Nato in hospital in 2023. PHOTO/ Xavier Nato.