Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo dies at 40

Popular Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo has died at the age of 40 after an alleged prolonged illness, according to reports by Punch Newspapers.

His death was confirmed on Tuesday by some of his colleagues in the Nigerian film industry, including Funke Akindele, Bolanle Ninalowo and Godwin Nnadiekwe, who paid emotional tributes to the actor on social media.

Reacting to the development, Akindele wrote on her Instagram story: “Rest in peace, Alex. I tried to reach out to see you one more time, but I guess you knew best. May your kind soul rest in peace.”

Ninalowo, who is currently in the United States, also mourned the actor, writing: “Rest on, Alex. May God heal your family and us all.”

Actor Nnadiekwe described the news as heartbreaking, saying Nollywood had lost “a rare soul”.

As of the time of filing this report, the family of the late actor had yet to issue an official statement regarding the circumstances surrounding his death.

Reports said concerns about Ekubo’s health had intensified in recent months following his prolonged absence from social media. The actor had reportedly stayed away from Instagram since December 2024, fuelling speculation among fans about his wellbeing.

A recent video shared online reportedly showed the actor appearing noticeably slimmer while interacting with children, further prompting reactions from fans and followers.

Born on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, Ekubo hailed from Arochukwu. He rose to prominence after emerging first runner-up in the 2010 Mr Nigeria competition, a breakthrough that paved the way for his successful acting and modelling career.

He featured in several notable Nollywood productions, including Lagos Cougars, Weekend Getaway, In the Cupboard, Hire a Woman, Sugar Rush, Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons and Fate of Alakada.

Beyond acting, Ekubo was also known for his humanitarian activities and influence within Nigeria’s entertainment industry. Over the years, he received several recognitions for his contributions to film and charity.

The actor’s personal life also attracted public attention, particularly his relationship with US-based model Fancy Acholonu. Their planned wedding was called off in 2021, although Acholonu later publicly apologised and reaffirmed her affection for the actor.

Before his death, Ekubo had publicly dismissed pressure over marriage, saying he was more focused on building wealth and advancing his career in the movie industry.

Source: Punch