Malawian Actor ‘Victor Kamwendo’ Lands Lead Role in U.S. Series ‘Outlands’
Published on September 4, 2025 at 10:32 AM by Evance Kapito
Malawian-born actor and filmmaker Victor Emmanuel Kamwendo has secured a leading role in the American television series Outlands, further cementing his rising career in Hollywood.
Kamwendo, originally from Ekwendeni, Malawi, previously starred in local productions such as Highbrow and Misnomar. In the U.S., he has appeared in popular shows including SWAT, Thrashers, Crossroads, and Trees of Peace.
In 2024, Kamwendo made history as the first Malawian to be nominated for an Emmy Award. His documentary film series Playing Fields, produced alongside David Darg and Dani Blevs, earned a nomination in the Outstanding Long Feature Award category at the 45th Sports Emmy Awards. The episode titled Ornella was particularly recognized.
Although he did not take home the award, Kamwendo’s milestone brought pride to Malawi’s creative industry. Reflecting on the achievement, he said:
“No matter where you come from, your dreams are valid.” He dedicated the recognition to children in Malawi and in South Bend, Indiana, who aspire to chase their dreams.
Outlands is set to premiere on September 9, 2025, and will be streamed for free on YouTube, giving global audiences the opportunity to watch Kamwendo’s performance.
Born in Blantyre, Kamwendo was raised in Malawi until the age of 13 before moving with his family to South Bend, Indiana, in 2001. He attended Penn High School, where he participated in choir and soccer, and later discovered his love for theatre while playing Na’aman in Salome at the University of Notre Dame.
He went on to study Performing Arts at Indiana University South Bend, graduating with a BA, before moving to Los Angeles, where he continues to build his career in film, television, and theatre.
