LAGOS, Nigeria (FN), The Nigerian film industry is mourning the death of actor Alexx Ekubo, who died Monday night at age 40 after a reported battle with liver cancer.
Ekubo passed away at Evercare Hospital in Lekki, Lagos, according to Boma Akpore, Director of Communication for the Actors Guild of Nigeria. His body has been moved to Ebony Vaults in Ikoyi.
Tributes poured in across Nollywood and beyond as colleagues, friends and fans remembered the actor’s charisma, generosity and screen presence. “I’m struggling to find the words. This news has truly broken me,” actor Godwin Nnadiekwe wrote on Instagram. Veteran filmmaker Lancelot Imasuen, who gave Ekubo his first movie role, called the loss “devastating and unbelievable.”
Ekubo had been largely absent from public view since late 2024, around the time his engagement ended.
Born April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Ekubo hailed from Arochukwu in Abia State. He studied law at the University of Calabar before pursuing acting. His breakthrough came after Imasuen cast him in his first film, paving the way for a career that spanned romantic comedies, dramas and television productions.
Known for his height, charm and versatility, Ekubo became one of Nollywood’s most recognizable faces over the past decade. In 2010, he won Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the Best of Nollywood Awards for Ladies Men. He later starred in films such as Weekend Getaway, True Lies, and The First Lady.
In 2020, the United Nations named him among the “Most Influential People of African Descent under 40” for his contributions to entertainment and social development across Africa.
Prominent figures in entertainment and media expressed grief over his passing. Actress Funke Akindele recalled their close bond, saying she regretted not seeing him one last time. Actor Bolanle Ninalowo prayed for strength for Ekubo’s family, while singer Peter Okoye posted a brief “RIP.”
Veteran actor Richard Mofe-Damijo described the death as “difficult to process,” praising Ekubo’s legacy. Actress Omoni Oboli, who called him her “bestie,” said she was devastated, recalling plans they had shared. Media entrepreneur Mo Abudu remembered how Ekubo affectionately called her “Mum,” describing him as “loving, real, kind and always respectful.”
Actress Kate Henshaw recalled his support during her mother’s passing, while Yvonne Jegede and Ruth Kadiri said he often reassured friends of his well-being despite concerns about his absence.
Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore described Ekubo as a “rare talent,” and broadcaster Oseni Rufai wrote simply: “Rest well Alex.”
Ekubo’s death marks a significant loss for Nollywood, where he was celebrated not only for his acting but also for his warmth and loyalty to colleagues and fans.
