Sad tales of 13 Nollywood Stars who died in first eight months of 2026

By Suzan Sunday

The Nigerian film industry has recorded the loss of several talented actors in 2026, leaving fans, colleagues and the wider entertainment community mourning. From veteran Yoruba performers to popular Nollywood stars and rising talents, these actors made memorable contributions to Nigerian cinema and television. Here are 13 Nollywood actors who died in 2026 and the roles they will be remembered for.

The list is not exhaustive. Here are the of the 10 actors Nollywood lost to death in 2026:

1. Alexx Ekubo

Following complications from kidney cancer, popular Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo died on May 11, 2026, at the age of 40. His death was confirmed by reports from sources close to his family, while his funeral rites were later held in Lagos and Abia State.

Ekubo began his acting career in Nollywood after emerging as the first runner-up in the 2010 Mr. Nigeria contest. He became one of the recognisable faces in the Nigerian film industry, appearing in several popular productions.

Some of his notable movies included; A Man for the Weekend, The Blood Covenant, Devil in Agbada, Almajiri and Afamefuna: An Nwa-Boi Story. His role in Afamefuna was among his later performances that further showcased his versatility as an actor.

2. Oby Kechere (Madam Koi Koi)

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Cecilia Oby Kechere, popularly known as Madam Koi Koi, died on April 27, 2026, after a prolonged illness. Her death was announced by the Directors Guild of Nigeria, which described her as a respected member of the filmmaking community.

Kechere joined Nollywood in 2001 and made her acting debut in the popular film August Meeting. She later became widely recognised for her role as Ms Koi Koi in the 2002 comedy classic Aki na Ukwa, a role that helped make her…