The Nigerian entertainment industry has been plunged into profound grief following the heartbreaking news of the passing of beloved Nollywood actor, Alex Ekubo.
The shock wave hit social media platforms on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, as news of the demise of the charismatic star, who was 40, began circulating. It is understood that Ekubo passed away after a private, prolonged battle with illness.
The initial tremor of the devastating news came from veteran actress Kate Henshaw, who posted a cryptic message on X (formerly Twitter) expressing hope that “bad news” she had just received would prove untrue. Moments later, the worst fears were confirmed as tributes flooded in, solidifying the reports that Alex Ekubo had sadly succumbed to his sickness at a hospital in Lagos.
Leading figures in Nollywood, including Funke Akindele and Rita Dominic, shared their profound sorrow online, underscoring the magnitude of the loss to Nigerian cinema and the wider entertainment community.
A Career Defined by Charisma and Talent
Born Alexx Ekubo-Okwaraeke on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the Arochukwu, Abia State native initially pursued a Law degree at the University of Calabar after attending Federal Government College Daura.
Though he began his film journey with a minor role in Lancelot Imasuen’s Sinners in the House (2003), Ekubo’s public profile skyrocketed after his run as the first runner-up in the prestigious 2011 Mr Nigeria contest.
His acting career truly soared following his pivotal role in the 2012 blockbuster Weekend Getaway, which earned him the Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the 2013 Best of Nollywood Awards. Ekubo cemented his status as a household name through the popular sitcom AY’s Crib and was a box office favorite, starring in major hits like The Bling Lagosians and Your Excellency (both 2019). His performance in Kayode Kasum’s 2023 feature Áfàméfùnà: An Nwa Boi Story was widely hailed by both critics and viewers.
Life Beyond the Camera
Beyond his on-screen success, Alex Ekubo was known for his close friendship with fellow celebrities IK Ogbonna and Yomi Casual, forming a celebrated trio in the industry. His personal life, particularly his high-profile romantic relationships, often captured public attention, notably his much-publicized split from model Fancy Acholonu in 2021.
Concerns about the star’s well-being had subtly grown among fans and colleagues following his sudden withdrawal from the public spotlight after his appearance in the movie Conversation in Transit, which also starred industry heavyweights like Richard Mofe Damijo and Osas Ighodaro.
The tragic news of his passing marks the loss of one of Nollywood’s leading men—a vibrant, significant figure whose talent helped redefine a generation of Nigerian cinematic stars.
At the time of this report, Alex Ekubo’s family has not yet released an official statement regarding his death.
