Hanging out with ‘Dr. Bossa’

Dec 23, 2010

YUSUF Ssemakula, a businessman in Kampala, likes Sam Bagenda a.k.a Dr. Bossa of The Ebonies. Bagenda is the winner of the New Vision Annual Readers’ Survey as ‘actor of the millennium’ and ‘best drama actor’ for the years: 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, and 200

YUSUF Ssemakula, a businessman in Kampala, likes Sam Bagenda a.k.a Dr. Bossa of The Ebonies. Bagenda is the winner of the New Vision Annual Readers’ Survey as ‘actor of the millennium’ and ‘best drama actor’ for the years: 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005.

Last Monday, an excited Yusuf spent some time with his idol in Theatre LaBonita’s Lounge. He told Pidson Kareire,/b> about their meeting.

Occupation: Businessman.
Favourite play: Bibawo

How long have you been a fan of Sam Bagenda?
Ever since his role in the play Bibawo. The play appealed to everyday Ugandans. I was young then, but I do remember that supper would delay till the end of the soap at night. Bagenda was such an inspiration; I do not think there is any other actor who has influenced my thinking towards acting like him.

What do you think of him now that you have interacted with him?
He is very humble. However, some acting mannerisms are part of his personality now. There are some things he said while we were together that left me wondering whether he was serious.

For instance, he said he likes beans, cabbage and chapatti. He also told me he likes red wine and not beer. He also likes walking. If he was serious, he must be living a simple lifestyle.

Did you ask him if he does anything else apart from acting?
He said he is a professional doctor, but does not practice medicine because he is busy. Acting is his permanent job, with an office at Theatre La Bonita.
I guess you asked him why he traded his medical profession for acting?
No I did not. However, I learnt that he loves acting and is very passionate about it.

Did you ask him when he started his acting career?
He said by 1995, he was already acting. He was so popular in the Ebonies first soap; That’s Life Mwattu.

How did you feel about hanging out with him?
I felt very special indeed. I am very happy. Besides, I won free tickets for me and my mother to watch the Ebonies’ Christmas play.

Was he the Bagenda you expected to see?
He is very simple and accommodative. He is also welcoming. Despite his busy schedule, he wanted us to hang out a bit longer. He was willing to explain whatever funny questions I asked and he did not show any signs of impatience.

Did you learn anything new about him?
I thought all celebrities were arrogant. Talking to Dr. Bosa showed me that it does not cost one anything to be simple, no matter who they are. In fact, it feels good when you live a simple lifestyle and are polite.

Did he act in anyway?
No. He was genuine and open. He did not fake it. That was him.
What did you observe about him?
Although busy, this man is organised. I also noticed that he received many calls. He switched off his phone so we could have a peaceful meeting.

Anything else?
I did know that he was married because I have never heard of or seen her. But he told me he was married and has children. He endeavours to make time for his family.

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