LAGOS — Popular Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo has reportedly died at the age of 40 after a prolonged illness, according to multiple Nigerian media outlets and tributes posted by colleagues in the entertainment industry.
Reports said the actor, whose full name was Alexx Ekubo-Okwaraeke, died on May 11 after privately battling cancer. While an official statement from his family had not yet been widely released, several actors and public figures appeared to confirm the news through social media tributes.
Tributes poured in from across Nigeria’s film industry, with stars including Funke Akindele, Richard Mofe-Damijo and Peter Okoye mourning the actor’s death and describing him as talented, kind-hearted and deeply respected within Nollywood.
Ekubo built a successful career that spanned acting, modelling and television, becoming especially known for his charm, comedic timing and romantic lead roles in Nigerian films.
He rose to fame after emerging first runner-up in the 2010 Mr Nigeria contest before becoming one of Nollywood’s best-known romantic comedy and drama actors.
Born in Port Harcourt and raised in Abia State, he studied law at the University of Calabar and later built a successful career as an actor, model and television personality. Over more than a decade in the industry, he earned several acting awards and nominations and became a familiar face in Nollywood productions, appearing in dozens of films and television projects. His popularity grew through romantic dramas, comedies and urban lifestyle movies that resonated with younger audiences.
Among his best-known films were Weekend Getaway, Lagos Cougars, Bling Lagosians, The First Lady, Champagne, A Sunday Affair, Merry Men, Zero Hour, The Blood Covenant and In Line. He also appeared in popular TV series and online productions that expanded his fan base across Africa and among diaspora audiences.
Ekubo frequently starred alongside leading Nollywood actors including Ramsey Nouah, Ini Edo, Mercy Johnson, Adesua Etomi, Nancy Isime and Richard Mofe-Damijo. Directors often cast him in roles portraying stylish professionals, romantic interests or ambitious young men navigating modern urban life.
Beyond acting, he was active as a brand influencer, event host and entrepreneur. His fashion style and social media presence made him one of the industry’s most visible celebrities during the rise of digital entertainment and streaming platforms in Africa.
Throughout his career, he earned several award nominations, including recognition at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and other regional entertainment ceremonies. Fans praised his versatility and ability to move between comedy, romance and dramatic performances.
Tributes from fellow actors described him as warm, generous and deeply supportive of younger performers entering the industry. Many colleagues recalled his humour on film sets and his role in promoting contemporary Nollywood to wider audiences.
Fans had expressed concern in recent months over his long absence from public appearances and social media activity. His last major online posts dated back to late 2024.
His reported death has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s entertainment world, with fans continuing to share scenes from his movies and celebrate a career that helped define a generation of modern Nollywood and African cinema.
