Nollywood Mourns as Actor Alexx Ekubo Dies at 40

Nollywood is in mourning following the death of popular actor and model Alexx Ekubo, who passed away on Monday, May 11, 2026, at the age of 40.

Family sources confirmed that Ekubo died in a Lagos hospital after a prolonged battle with stage 4 liver cancer. He was diagnosed in 2024 and had undergone a liver transplant, briefly returning to work before complications set in and his condition worsened. 

The news broke on Tuesday, May 12, after colleagues including Godwin Nnadiekwe and filmmaker Stanley Ontop shared emotional tributes online. 

Born Alexx Ekubo-Okwaraeke on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, he first gained national attention as first runner-up at Mr Nigeria 2010. That launched him into modeling and acting, where he became one of Nollywood’s most recognizable romantic leads. 

He starred in over 100 films, including _Weekend Getaway_, _A Sunday Affair_, _Almajiri_, and _Devil in Agbada_. Outside film, many knew him from Yemi Alade’s _Johnny_ music video. He was also named among the “Most Influential People of African Descent” under 40 in 2020. 

Tributes Pour In

Funke Akindele wrote: “Hmmmmmm. Rest in peace, Alex. I tried to reach out to see you one more time, but I guess you knew best. May your kind soul rest in peace, Alex”. 

Bolanle Ninalowo posted: “Rest on, Alex. May God heal your family and us all”. Richard Mofe-Damijo and Omoyele Sowore also paid tribute, calling him a “rare talent” and “great soul”.

Fans across social media described him as kind, talented, and full of life, with many saying his absence from social media since December 2024 had worried them. 

Rest in Peace

Alexx Ekubo kept his health struggle private until his passing. His family has asked the public to avoid speculation and allow them privacy. 

He leaves behind a legacy of charm, versatility, and a body of work that shaped Nollywood for over a decade.

Rest in peace, Alexx Ekubo. 1986 – 2026.