Kenyans were astonished after veteran television host Mitch Egwang revealed the staggering costs behind the production of Tusker Project Fame (TPF), one of East Africa’s most iconic talent shows.
Speaking in an interview for the Financially Incorrect series, Egwang offered a rare insight into the financial realities of hosting and producing the program, which captivated audiences across the region for years.
He disclosed he once negotiated a $90,000 deal with DSTV, underscoring the scale of investment required to bring the show to life.
“I said, let me throw them a number that will scare them off, but again also I need this opportunity, so I said you guys mind giving me $90,000,” he said.
According to him, TPF cost around Ksh 600 million per season to produce, with not every chapter was a successful.
He recounted a personal setback; a concert disaster that resulted in a major financial loss that risked entertainers and producers leaving the media industry, where high-stakes projects cement reputations or lead to costly failures.
Egwang further revealed 2,000 to 2,500 people showed up, leaving him to absorb a $1.3 million loss. He reflected how long it took him to truly understand money.
TPF was launched in 2006, quickly became a household name across East Africa, a show not only showcased musical talent but also shaped careers, introduced new stars, and set a reality for television in the region.
