Daddie Marto and Koku have become household names in Kenya’s entertainment scene, blending charisma and creativity to carve their unique niche. Daddie, a celebrated MC, actor, and content creator, has graced screens in hit productions like Sue na Johnnie and Showmax’s acclaimed drama County 49. Koku, who originally charted a path in engineering, transitioned into the content creation world, drawing inspiration from her husband’s passion for storytelling.
Married for over seven years and raising three children together, Daddie and Koku embody a thriving partnership that balances family life with shared creative pursuits.
Their latest venture sees the duo co-hosting Nairobi Bachelor, Showmax’s newest reality dating show that delves into the unpredictable world of modern romance. The series follows young bachelors navigating the highs and lows of finding true love. With no roadmaps or guarantees, each contender must rely on wit, charm, and emotional intuition to connect with their ideal match.
In an exclusive chat with Showmax, the couple opened up about their hosting experience and shared insights into the evolving landscape of modern dating in Kenya.
What drew you to hosting Nairobi Bachelor, and how does it align with your personalities as a couple?
Koku: When the opportunity came up, I was both excited and a little terrified. Hosting a show like this was completely outside my comfort zone, but I saw it as a chance to grow and embrace something new. I’ve always been passionate about meaningful connections and relationships, and the idea of being part of a project that celebrates love in all its complexity felt incredibly rewarding.
Daddie Marto: Having been a show host before, I loved the concept of the show and was keen to be part of the story unfolding for our audiences.
Dating in 2024 is no easy feat, particularly for Gen Zs and Millennials. What are your thoughts on love and relationships in Kenya, given the many factors influencing the success of modern relationships today?
Koku & Daddie Marto: Dating in 2024 is certainly not for the faint-hearted! People today are balancing traditional expectations with modern ideals, all while navigating the impact of social media and dating apps. In Kenya, there’s a growing emphasis on emotional intelligence and shared values, which is a positive shift. However, the pressure to meet societal or online standards often makes it challenging for individuals to remain authentic in their relationships.
The show encourages participants to value qualities beyond physical appearances. What advice would you offer to singles navigating modern relationships in a society often fixated on looks?
Koku & Daddie Marto: We would say focus on substance over style. While attraction is important, it fades if there’s no emotional or intellectual connection. The key is to look for someone whose values and goals align with yours, and who supports your growth. Social media creates a false sense of perfection, but real love thrives on imperfection and mutual effort.
What was the most memorable moment during the filming of Nairobi Bachelor?
Koku: There was a moment when one of the participants completely broke down in front of the group. It was unexpected, but it reminded me how raw and real this journey was for the contestants. It wasn’t just about finding a partner – it was also about facing fears, insecurities, and past baggage.
Daddie Marto: One of the contestants openly admitted to providing happy-ending massages as part of his job and was completely comfortable with it. It reminded me that embracing and showing up as your authentic self is essential – without feeling the need to hide or apologise for who we are.
What was it like working together as hosts? Did you learn anything new about each other during the process?
Koku: It was a mix of fun and growth! We are used to working together as content creators, but hosting a show added new dynamics. I was amazed at how effortlessly Marto brought out the best in people on set. It also reminded me how much I admire his confidence and ability to adapt.
Daddie Marto: It took time, but I loved and admired the fact that she aced her first run at hosting. In my books at least. She has always had a fear of new challenges, but the fact that she went in a novice and left a pro, that is to be saluted. It was also challenging in that I needed to always remember this is my co-host first, not my wife. And, having directed her before, I had to fight the temptation to direct her and leave the directing to the director. I failed a couple of times, but mostly succeeded.
Reality TV often has its fair share of drama. Were there moments when you felt emotionally invested in the participants’ journeys?
Koku: Oh, absolutely! There were moments I wanted to step in and give advice or even a comforting hug, but I had to let the process unfold naturally. It was hard not to get attached, especially when you could see someone struggling to open up or make a tough decision.
Daddie Marto: Some of us live with the philosophy of live and let live. Let people show up as their authentic selves. If you want to associate with them, choose and move. I was there to enjoy the journeys more than anything.
What do you think Nairobi Bachelor reveals about dating culture in Kenya today?
Koku & Daddie Marto: The show delves into the complexities of dating in Kenya, where challenges are intertwined with rich cultural nuances. It explores how modern singles strive to balance their personal aspirations with societal expectations, highlighting the transformative role of technology in how we connect. Yet, at its core, love remains timeless, anchored in trust, respect, and vulnerability. The show also serves as a reminder that, while relationships can be challenging, they are worth the effort. It also inspires viewers to look beyond stereotypes and truly embrace others for who they are. We hope audiences leave with a renewed belief in love and genuine connection.
If you could give one piece of advice to future participants on Nairobi Bachelor, what would it be?
Koku & Daddie Marto: Be yourself, unapologetically. Don’t try to fit into someone else’s idea of who you should be. The right person will appreciate you for who you truly are.
