Nollywood, the vibrant and dynamic Nigerian film industry, has captivated audiences worldwide with its unique storytelling, cultural richness, and compelling characters. Over the years, the industry has seen the rise of many talented actors and actresses who have left an indelible mark on the hearts of viewers.
However, the past few years have also been marked by the loss of some of Nollywood’s most beloved stars. This article pays tribute to these remarkable individuals who passed away in recent years, highlighting their contributions to the film industry and their memorable roles.
Nollywood Actors Who Died in recent years
1. Rachel Oniga (1957 – 2021)
Rachel Oniga was a veteran actress known for her versatility and compelling performances in both Yoruba and English-language films. Born on May 23, 1957, she made her acting debut in the early 1990s and became a household name with roles in movies like Sango, Died Wretched, and Doctor Bello. She passed away on July 30, 2021, leaving behind a legacy of over three decades in Nollywood.
2. Bruno Iwuoha (1952 – 2021)
Bruno Iwuoha was renowned for his roles in Nollywood dramas, where he often played patriarchal figures. Born on October 6, 1952, Iwuoha had a commanding presence on screen, with memorable performances in movies such as Sin of the Flesh, World Apart, and Fire on the Mountain. He succumbed to a long battle with diabetes and passed away on April 10, 2021.
3. Sam Loco Efe (1945 – 2011)
Although he passed away slightly outside our specified timeframe, Sam Loco Efe’s influence in Nollywood was profound and worthy of mention. Born on December 25, 1945, he was a comedic genius known for his roles in A Fool at 40, Tom and Jerry, and Ukwa. His sudden death on August 7, 2011, was a significant loss to the industry.
4. Enebeli Elebuwa (1947 – 2012)
Enebeli Elebuwa was another veteran actor whose contributions to Nollywood were immense. Born on February 14, 1947, he was known for his roles in Royal War, Checkmate, and City of Kings. He passed away on December 4, 2012, after a prolonged illness.
5. Chiwetalu Agu (1946 – Present)
Although there was a false rumor about his death in 2021, Chiwetalu Agu remains one of Nollywood’s most beloved actors. Known for his unique catchphrases and comedic roles, Agu has starred in countless movies, including Taboo, The Catechist, and Old School.
6. Sadiq Daba (1952 – 2021)
Sadiq Daba was a distinguished actor and broadcaster. Born on May 11, 1952, he gained fame through his role in the iconic Nigerian TV series Cockcrow at Dawn. His performance in Kunle Afolayan’s October 1 earned him critical acclaim. Daba battled leukemia and prostate cancer before passing away on March 3, 2021.
7. Ernest Asuzu (1984 – 2021)
Ernest Asuzu was a talented actor and musician known for his roles in action and romantic films. Born on May 7, 1984, he starred in movies like Rituals, Ogidan, and Burning Desire. Asuzu’s career was cut short by a stroke, and he passed away on January 26, 2021.
8. Jim Lawson Maduike (1947 – 2021)
Jim Lawson Maduike was an actor, radio broadcaster, writer, and TV personality. Born on May 25, 1947, he was known for his authoritative roles in films like Royal Madness, Heart of an enslaved person, and Gallant Babes. Maduike passed away on January 9, 2021.
9. Orisabunmi (1959 – 2021)
Folasade Omoniyi, popularly known as Orisabunmi, was a Yoruba actress who was celebrated for her roles in traditional-themed movies. Born on October 10, 1959, she appeared in films like Arelu, Yanponyanrin, and Erin Lakatabu. She died on January 5, 2021.
10. Deji Aderemi (Olofa Ina) (1950 – 2024)
Deji Aderemi, popularly known as Olofa Ina, was a veteran Yoruba actor known for his roles as a traditional chief and Ifa priest in several Yoruba movies. Born on March 1, 1950, he was famous for movies like Kabiyesi Olodumare and Ewe Orun. He passed away on January 4, 2024, due to cancer.
11. John Okafor (Mr. Ibu) (1961 – 2024)
John Okafor, popularly known as Mr. Ibu, was a legendary comic actor known for his comedic roles and cheerful personality. Born on October 17, 1961, he starred in films like Mr. Ibu, Police Recruit, and Mr. Ibu Goes to School. He died on March 2, 2024, after battling diabetes.
12. Amaechi Muonagor (1962 – 2024)
Amaechi Muonagor was a veteran actor known for his authoritative and often comedic roles in Nollywood films. Born on August 20, 1962, he appeared in movies like My Village People and Aki na Ukwa. He passed away on March 24, 2024, due to kidney disease.
13. Adejumoke Aderounmu (1984 – 2024)
Adejumoke Aderounmu was a talented actress best known for her role in Jenifa’s Diary. Born on December 8, 1984, she appeared in films like Arugba and Dazzling Mirage. She died on April 6, 2024, after battling an undisclosed illness.
14. Pope Odonwodo (Junior Pope) (1985 – 2024)
Popularly known as Junior Pope, Pope Odonwodo was a prominent actor in the Eastern faction of Nollywood. Born on April 12, 1985, he starred in films like Secret Adventures and Honey Money. He died on April 10, 2024, in a boat accident.
15. Ethel Ekpe (1963 – 2024)
Ethel Ekpe was an actress known for her role in the sitcom Basi and Company. Born on May 5, 1963, she passed away on February 7, 2024, after battling cancer.
16. Sule Suebebe (Dayo Adewunmi) (1960 – 2024)
Dayo Adewunmi, popularly known as Sule Suebebe, was a veteran actor known for his roles in Yoruba films. Born on November 20, 1960, he passed away on June 12, 2024.
17. Stella Ikwuegbu (1958 – 2024)
Stella Ikwuegbu was a veteran actress known for her roles in Nollywood dramas. Born on April 4, 1958, she starred in films like Evil Passion and Nneka the Pretty Serpent. She died on June 16, 2024, after battling leg cancer.
18. Jimi Solanke (1943 – 2024)
Jimi Solanke was an actor and dramatist known for his role in the children’s show Tales by Moonlight. Born on July 4, 1943, he passed away on February 5, 2024, due to an undisclosed illness.
19. Sisi Quadri (Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji) (1980 – 2024)
Sisi Quadri was a beloved comic actor in the Yoruba movie industry. Born on September 12, 1980, he was known for his roles in Anikulapo: The Rise of The Spectre and Eran Iya Osogbo. He passed away on March 1, 2024.
These actors and actresses have left behind a rich legacy, and their contributions to Nollywood will continue to inspire and entertain future generations. Their talents, dedication, and unforgettable performances have cemented their places in the annals of Nigerian cinema history.