Grief has swept through the Nigerian entertainment industry following the passing of versatile Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo, who died on Monday, May 11, 2026, after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was 40 years old.
A source confirmed that Ekubo was rushed to a hospital in Lagos on Monday, where he had been placed on life support, and passed away Tuesday afternoon. TVC was among the outlets that confirmed the news. His family is yet to release an official statement, and details surrounding his death remain sketchy.
Ekubo was one of Nollywood’s most recognisable faces, widely known for his roles in romantic dramas and contemporary Nigerian films. He also featured in several major productions, including Afamefuna, one of his notable appearances in 2024, and is remembered by many for his role in Yemi Alade’s popular music video Johnny. He first gained national attention as first runner-up at the 2010 Mr. Nigeria contest before rising to prominence through the Nollywood blockbuster Weekend Getaway. In 2020, he was named one of the United Nations’ Most Influential People of African Descent under 40.
The shocking news left fans and colleagues devastated, with many struggling to come to terms with the loss. Actor Godwin Nnadiekwe expressed deep sorrow, writing: “I’m struggling to find the words. This news has truly broken me… Rest on, Alex. May God heal your family and all of us.”
His passing had been preceded by months of public concern over his prolonged absence from social media. His last Instagram post was made on December 30, 2024, sparking widespread speculation about his health. In 2025, fellow actor Stanley Ontop had publicly dismissed rumours of serious illness, saying Ekubo had simply stepped away from social media because it had become “too toxic” for him.
His death has since triggered an outpouring of reactions from colleagues and fans across social media platforms. This is a developing story.
