The Nigerian entertainment industry was plunged into mourning today as news broke of the passing of Nollywood star Alexx Ekubo, one of the most recognizable and beloved faces in African cinema.
Ekubo passed away on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at a hospital, following a period of illness that had led to his hospitalization on Monday.
A Nollywood source who requested anonymity confirmed to reporters that the actor had been battling cancer and that he passed away on Tuesday afternoon after spending several hours on life support.
The news was first broken not by a press release, but by a grief-stricken colleague.
Fellow actor Godwin Nnadiekwe took to Instagram to announce the loss, writing: “I’m struggling to find the words. This news has truly broken me. Nollywood has lost a rare soul.” “Nnadiekwe added poignantly, To think you already prepared your will—it’s a heartbreak I can’t quite describe. Rest well, my friend.”
The post spread rapidly across social media, triggering an outpouring of shock and grief from fans, colleagues, and industry watchers across the continent.
Ekubo began his acting journey in 2005 with a minor role in ‘Sinners in the House,’ directed by Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen.
He gained widespread attention after securing the first runner-up position at the 2010 Mr. Nigeria competition. It was a launchpad that few could have predicted would culminate in one of Nollywood‘s most decorated careers.
He is best known for his roles in romantic comedies and dramas and was considered one of the most bankable and versatile talents in contemporary African cinema.
With over 100 film credits to his name, Ekubo worked with leading Nollywood filmmakers and was increasingly recognized as a cultural bridge between African and diaspora cinema.
His breakout performance came with ‘Ladies Men,’ followed by his award-winning role in ‘Weekend Getaway,’ which earned him Best Supporting Actor at the 2013 Best of Nollywood Awards.
His filmography would go on to include celebrated titles such as ‘Bling Lagosians,’ ‘Ayinla,’ ‘Your Excellency,’ and ‘Merry Men.’
Beyond the big screen, Ekubo became a household name across Africa through an unexpected route. He is also widely referred to as “Johnny,” after appearing in Yemi Alade’s iconic music video of the same name, which has amassed over 135 million views on YouTube and remains one of the most-watched music videos ever to emerge from Africa.
Those who knew Alexx Ekubo well will attest that his identity extended far beyond the camera. In 2020, he was named one of the “Most Influential People of African Descent Under 40” by the United Nations for his contributions to entertainment and social development across the continent.
In 2021, he received the Nigerian National Award of Excellence as the Global Social Giving Actor of the Year for his charity work and was also awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Arts and Culture from ISCG University in Cotonou, Republic of Benin.
A law graduate who chose storytelling over the courts, Ekubo studied law at the University of Calabar and also holds a Diploma in Mass Communication from Calabar Polytechnic. He was, by every measure, a man of uncommon depth and range.
In hindsight, the signs were there. Ekubo had been absent from social media for a considerable period, with his last known post dating back to December 30, 2023.
Speculation about his health had simmered quietly through 2025, though no official statement was ever issued. His fans held out hope. That hope, today, has been extinguished.
As of the time of this report, there has been no official confirmation from Ekubo’s family or management. Details surrounding the precise nature of his illness continue to emerge, and this is a developing story.
Alexx Ekubo was born on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He hailed from Arochukwu in Abia State and is survived by his family. He was 40 years old.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Nollywood has lost one of its most gifted and multidimensional talents.
Alexx Ekubo, who passed away on May 12, 2026, at just 40 years old, was far more than an actor; he was a humanitarian, a cultural ambassador, and a symbol of what African excellence looks like on and off the screen.
