Juliet Nyonyintono, the wife of late Ugandan legendary actor Alex Mukulu, has revealed that she regrets walking away from their marriage years ago over what she described as small misunderstandings.
Speaking during the requiem mass held at the National Theatre in honour of the fallen theatre icon, Juliet opened up about their marriage journey, expressing sadness over the years they spent apart.
Juliet said that after giving birth to their two children in the early 1990s, disagreements developed between her and Mukulu, leading to a difficult period in their relationship.
She explained that during that time, she made the decision to pack her belongings and leave Mukulu’s home in Mengo, a choice she now looks back on with regret.
According to Juliet, the separation happened after marital misunderstandings that she believes could have been resolved through patience, communication and forgiveness.
She said that after leaving the home, she travelled abroad and spent many years away from Uganda while Mukulu remained behind.
Juliet revealed that she only returned after receiving information that Mukulu’s health had deteriorated and that he was frequently moving in and out of medical facilities seeking treatment.
She said learning about his condition made her reflect on their past and the years they had spent apart.
Juliet noted that despite their long separation, Mukulu continued living alone in his Mengo home and focused on his life and work.
She claimed that during the 34 years they were apart, Mukulu never married another woman and instead lived independently, often eating meals from restaurants.
The widow said that hearing about Mukulu’s lifestyle after their separation made her realise the depth of the bond they had shared despite the challenges they experienced.
She explained that before his death, she had the opportunity to speak with him and ask for forgiveness for leaving him many years earlier.
Juliet said she wanted Mukulu to know that she regretted the decision and that she carried the memories of their marriage throughout the years they spent apart.
She described Alex Mukulu as a special person whose contribution to Uganda’s theatre and entertainment industry will never be forgotten.
The late actor was celebrated as one of Uganda’s most influential theatre personalities, known for his creativity, humour and ability to connect with audiences.
Juliet said that although their marriage faced challenges, she appreciated the years they shared together and the family they built.
She also paid tribute to Mukulu’s character, describing him as a dedicated person who remained committed to his craft and his responsibilities.
Family members, friends and fellow actors who attended the requiem mass remembered Mukulu as a talented artist who inspired generations of Ugandans.
Many described his death as a major loss to Uganda’s creative industry, especially theatre, where he had built a respected legacy.
Juliet’s emotional reflection added a personal side to the public farewell, showing the complicated experiences that can exist behind the lives of celebrated personalities.
She said that despite the years of separation, she was grateful that she was able to reconnect with Mukulu before his passing and express her regret.
As Uganda continues mourning Alex Mukulu, his family and fans remember him not only for his artistic achievements but also for the personal relationships and memories he left behind.
