Sadly, 2026 was another painful year for Nollywood. The Nigerian film industry lost several talented actors whose performances entertained millions of viewers over the years. Some made us laugh until our cheeks hurt.
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Others moved us to tears with unforgettable performances. Through their work, they became familiar faces in our homes and earned a special place in the hearts of audiences across Nigeria and beyond.
Although they are no longer with us, the stories they told and the memories they created through film will continue to live on.
Here are some of the Nollywood actors we lost in 2026:
Alexx Ekubo
Born: April 10, 1986
Died: May 11, 2026 (aged 40)
Cause of death: Complications from advanced metastatic kidney cancer.
Alexx Ikenna Ekubo-Okwaraeke was one of Nollywood’s most recognisable leading men. Before venturing fully into acting, he emerged as the first runner-up at the 2010 Mr Nigeria competition, a moment that introduced him to national audiences.
He went on to build a successful acting career, appearing in more than 100 films, including Weekend Getaway, Lagos Cougars, The Bling Lagosians, A Sunday Affair and Afamefuna: An Nwa Boi
Known for his charm, versatility and professionalism, Ekubo became a favourite in romantic dramas and comedies. Beyond the screen, he was admired for his philanthropy and willingness to mentor younger creatives.
His death at the age of 40 came as a shock to fans and colleagues, many of whom described him as kind, generous and deeply committed to his craft. Tributes poured in from across the entertainment industry as friends, family and admirers gathered to celebrate a life many believed ended far too soon.
Temitope Osoba
Born: 1986
Died: August 5, 2026 (aged 40)
Cause of death: The exact cause of her death was not officially disclosed. Her passing came nearly two years after she publicly battled breast cancer and announced she was cancer-free. Following her death, her family urged the public to disregard unverified reports surrounding the circumstances of her passing.
Temitope Osoba was a respected actress in the Yoruba film industry, known for her natural performances and lively screen presence. Over the years, she featured in numerous Yoruba-language films, earning admiration from colleagues and audiences alike for her dedication to her craft.
Beyond her acting career, Osoba became a symbol of courage after openly sharing her battle with breast cancer. Rather than suffer in silence, she spoke about her journey, inspiring many Nigerians facing similar health challenges.
When she announced she had recovered, fans and colleagues celebrated what many believed was the beginning of a new chapter in her life and career.
News of her death therefore came as a painful surprise. Tributes poured in from across the entertainment industry, with many remembering her as cheerful, resilient and deeply passionate about filmmaking.
She was laid to rest on August 13, 2026, in Iperu Remo, Ogun State, after a candlelight procession and artists’ night attended by family, friends and colleagues who gathered to celebrate her life and legacy.
Oby Kechere (Madam Koi Koi)
Died: April 27, 2026
Cause of death: Prolonged illness.
Veteran actress, producer and director Oby Kechere was a respected figure in the Igbo-language film industry. Popularly known as “Madam Koi Koi”, she began her Nollywood career in 2001 and appeared in numerous August Meeting productions before establishing herself as both an actress and filmmaker.
Many Nigerians remember her for playing memorable maternal and authority roles that reflected everyday life.
Away from acting, she served as Vice Chairman of the Abuja chapter of the Directors Guild of Nigeria, contributing to the growth of filmmaking beyond the screen.
Her passing marked the end of more than two decades of dedication to Nollywood.
Ajara Lasisi (Aunty Ajara)
Died: February 2026
Cause of death: Prolonged illness.
Ajara Lasisi, fondly called Aunty Ajara, was one of the familiar faces in Yoruba cinema.
She became popular for her comic supporting roles, often portraying outspoken neighbours, market women and relatable family characters that resonated with audiences.
Before her death, colleagues and fans had rallied round her through fundraising efforts as she battled illness. News of her passing drew heartfelt tributes from across the Yoruba movie industry, where she was remembered for her humour, humility and resilience.
Bamidele Oluwatope (Okemesi)
Died: February 2026
Actor Bamidele Oluwatope, widely known as Okemesi, was another loss to the Yoruba film industry.
He built a reputation for energetic performances and comic roles that endeared him to audiences.
His death was received with sadness by colleagues and fans who remembered him as an actor passionate about entertaining people through film.
Davis Offor
Died: 2026
Davis Offor was recognised for his dedication to Nollywood and his steady contributions to film.
Though he was not always in the spotlight, fellow actors remembered him as a committed professional whose love for acting was evident in every project he worked on.
His passing added to the growing list of losses that saddened the industry this year.
Solomon Akiyesi
Died: 2026
Solomon Akiyesi featured in several Nollywood productions over the years and built a loyal audience through his performances.
News of his death was met with an outpouring of condolences from colleagues and fans, many of whom reflected on the impact he made during his years in the industry.
Gone, But Not Forgotten
Every year, Nollywood welcomes new actors with fresh dreams and new stories to tell. At the same time, it says goodbye to men and women whose work helped shape the industry into what it is today.
The actors remembered here may no longer grace our television screens, but the films they left behind ensure that their talent, passion and legacy will continue to inspire generations of movie lovers.
For those who loved their work, the credits may have rolled, but the memories remain.
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