Nigerian film star Alexx Ekubo has passed away at the age of 40, leaving the entertainment industry and fans heartbroken. The award-winning actor, known for his unforgettable roles and humanitarian work, reportedly died in a Lagos hospital after a long fight with liver cancer.

Friends and colleagues have described his death as “devastating and unbelievable.” Filmmaker Lancelot Imasuen, who gave Ekubo his first film role, called the news a heavy blow to Nollywood.

Fellow actor Funke Akindele expressed her grief online: “I tried to reach out to see you one more time, but guess you knew best… You kept telling me you were fine. Rest in peace, Alex. Ore mi, I will always cherish the good times we shared.”

Born on April 10, 1986, in Rivers State, Nigeria, Ekubo’s career was decorated with awards and accolades, including a Special Recognition Award from Nigeria’s First Lady, induction into the UN’s Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) under 40, and an honorary doctorate in arts and culture.

He was also celebrated for his humanitarian work, earning the Global Social Giving Actor of the Year award in 2021.

Alex Ekubo’s legacy lives on through his films, charity, and the lives he touched. Nollywood has lost a star, and the world has lost a generous soul.

Alexx Ekubo: 5 Things to Know About the Late Nollywood Star

Nollywood mourns the loss of Alexx Ekubo, a star whose charm, style, and comic timing lit up screens for over a decade. Here’s what you need to know about the actor who captured hearts both on and off screen:

1. Law Student Turned Star – Before Nollywood fame, Ekubo studied Law at the University of Calabar and earned a diploma in Mass Communication, showing that brains and talent ran deep.

2. Mr Nigeria Runner-Up – His entertainment journey began in modelling, where he was first runner-up at Mr Nigeria 2010, a breakthrough that launched him into acting.

3. Multilingual Talent – Fluent in English, Igbo, and Hausa, Ekubo’s ability to connect across cultures made him relatable and beloved nationwide.

4. 100+ Films and Counting – From Weekend Getaway to The Bling Lagosians, Ekubo starred in over 100 movies, becoming one of Nollywood’s most bankable and versatile actors.

5. Humanitarian Recognition – Beyond acting, he made a mark with charity and youth development work, earning a spot among the UN’s Most Influential People of African Descent under 40 in 2020.

From modelling to acting and philanthropy, Alexx Ekubo left a legacy that went far beyond the screen—one that Nigerians and fans worldwide will remember forever.