Lawrence Osarenkhoe, widely recognized by his stage name MC Casino, has carved a niche for himself in Nigeria’s vibrant comedy scene. Born and raised in Benin City, Edo State, his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated comedian and event host is both inspiring and commendable.
MC Casino hails from Orhionmwon Local Government Area in Edo State. He pursued higher education at the University of Benin, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, majoring in Fisheries. During his time at the university, he became actively involved in student politics, serving as the first male Student Union Government (SUG) Vice President in the 2010/2011 academic session. His passion for advocacy and leadership was evident early on, as he consistently stood against oppression and championed the rights of his fellow students. It was during his university days that he discovered his passion for comedy, performing at various campus events and honing his craft.
MC Casino was inspired by Nollywood actor Jim Iyke. In an interview, MC Casino revealed that his admiration for Jim Iyke, particularly in the movie “The Cat,” led him to adopt the name ‘Casino’ after hearing it in the film. He added the ‘MC’ prefix, symbolizing his role as a master of ceremonies, thus birthing the stage name ‘MC Casino’.
Over the years, MC Casino has shared stages with renowned Nigerian comedians such as Basketmouth, AY, Bovi, and I Go Dye. His contributions to comedy and culture were recognized in July 2022 when he was inducted into the prestigious Kings and Kingdom Africa Hall of Fame as an Ambassador of Cultural Ethics, Values, and Morals.
Beyond stand-up comedy, MC Casino has made a name as an On-Air Personality with Silverbird’s Rhythm 93.7 FM in Benin City, further endearing himself to a broader audience. He is also an event host, know for how he blends humor with stage presentation.
MC Casino leverages his platform to address societal issues, using humor to shed light on topics like cultism and human trafficking. His skits often carry messages that promote good morals and discourage social vices, reflecting his commitment to societal betterment.
MC Casino’s journey from a young boy in Benin City to a celebrated comedian and cultural ambassador exemplifies the power of passion, resilience, and a commitment to positive societal impact. This serves as an inspiration to aspiring entertainers and underscores the importance of using one’s platform for the greater good.
