Nollywood Star Alexx Ekubo Dies at 40 After Cancer Battle

The Nollywood industry is in mourning following the death of popular actor and former model Alexx Ekubo. He was 40 years old.

Reports indicate that Ekubo passed away on Tuesday, May 12, due to health complications related to kidney cancer. According to sources, the actor had been placed on life support for several hours before passing. His death comes after months of concern from fans regarding his notable absence from the public eye and social media since late 2024.

News of his passing was first signaled by filmmaker Samuel Olatunji and later corroborated by colleagues including Funke Akindele, Bolanle Ninalowo, and Godwin Nnadiekwe, who expressed their shock and grief on social media. In a statement, Ekubo’s colleagues expressed deep sorrow, with Nnadiekwe noting, “Nollywood has lost a rare soul… this wasn’t the plan”.

Born Alexx Ekubo-Okwaraeke on April 10, 1986, in Abia State, he was a graduate of Law from the University of Calabar and also held a diploma in Mass Communication. He first rose to prominence as the first runner-up in the 2010 Mr. Nigeria contest before starring in over 100 films, including hits like The Bling Lagosians and Omo Ghetto: The Saga.

As of press time, his family had not issued an official statement.

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