Popular Nollywood actor and model Alexx Ekubo has reportedly died at the age of 40, throwing Nigeria’s entertainment industry into mourning.
Multiple Nigerian media outlets reported on Tuesday that the actor passed away on Monday, May 11, after battling an illness believed to be cancer-related, although official confirmation from his family or management was still limited at the time of reporting.
Ekubo, born Alex Ekubo-Okwaraeke, was widely known for his roles in Nollywood romantic dramas and comedy films. He rose to prominence after emerging as the first runner-up in the 2010 Mr Nigeria contest and later starred in hit productions including Weekend Getaway, The Bling Lagosians, A Sunday Affair and Áfàméfùnà: An Nwa Boi Story.
Reports said concerns about his health had grown in recent months after he disappeared from social media and public events. His last known social media activity was reportedly in December 2024.
Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues, fans and members of the entertainment industry, many describing him as one of Nollywood’s most charismatic and recognisable stars.
The reports were first circulated by Nigerian entertainment blogs and later picked up by several news organisations, including Punch Newspapers, Vanguard News and The Sun Nigeria.