10 Popular Nollywood Actors Who Died in 2024

The year 2024 saw a heartbreaking loss for Nollywood. Several prominent actors passed away, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the film industry.

EKO HOT BLOG reports that these late stars, known for their remarkable talents, contributed immensely to the cultural and entertainment landscape and will forever remain in the hearts of their fans.

Here’s a tribute to the Nollywood actors we lost in 2024:

1. Olofa Ina (Deji Aderemi): Veteran Yoruba actor, Deji Aderemi, popularly known as Olofa Ina, passed away on January 4, 2024, at 73, after a lengthy battle with cancer. His work, which highlighted the richness of Yoruba culture, continues to inspire.

2. Ekpe Ethel: The beloved Nigerian actress died on February 7, 2024, after a prolonged illness due to cancer. Ekpe was famed for her role in the classic sitcom Basi and Company, where she showcased her comedic brilliance.

3. Jimi Solanke: Renowned for his storytelling in Tales by Moonlight, the actor, poet, and playwright passed away on February 5, 2024, after a long struggle with age-related health issues.

4. Sisi Quadri (Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji): Comedic actor, Sisi Quadri, passed away on March 1, 2024, in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, after a brief illness. His death coincided with the release of Anikulapo: Rise of the Specter on Netflix, where he played one of the ghosts in the mystical series.

5. Mr. Ibu (John Okafor): Iconic comedian and actor, Mr. Ibu, passed away on March 2, 2024, in Lagos after a cardiac arrest linked to complications from diabetes. He was beloved for his humorous portrayal of everyday life.

6. Amaechi Muonagor: The Nollywood community was still reeling from the loss of Mr. Ibu and Sisi Quadri when Amaechi Muonagor passed away on March 24, 2024, at 62. Muonagor had battled kidney disease and had appealed for financial assistance before his death.

7. Adejumoke Ademeron: Adejumoke, best known for her role as Esther in Jenifa’s Diary, passed away on April 6, 2024, at just 40 years old due to an undisclosed illness.

8. Junior Pope (Pope Odonwodo): Tragically, Junior Pope and three other actors lost their lives on April 22, 2024, after their boat capsized in the Anam River, Anambra State, while returning from a movie set.

9. Zulu Adigwe: The veteran actor passed away on April 24, 2024, just two weeks after Junior Pope’s tragic accident.

10. Charles Olumo (Agbako): On October 31, 2024, the oldest actor in Nollywood, Pa Charles Olumo Sanyaolu, fondly known as Agbako, passed away at 101. His career and contributions to Nigerian cinema left a lasting impact on the nation’s cultural heritage.

These actors, through their unique talents and performances, will forever be remembered by Nollywood fans and continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers and performers.

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