The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of beloved actor, model and entertainer Alexx Ekubo, who passed away on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, at the age of 40.

His passing has sent shockwaves across Nollywood and among millions of fans across Africa and the diaspora who admired his talent, charm and larger-than-life personality.

The actor’s family confirmed his passing in a statement shared on his verified Instagram page, revealing that he died at Evercare Hospital following complications arising from advanced metastatic kidney cancer after a brief but courageous battle.

Born Alexx Ekubo-Okwaraeke on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, he was originally from Arochukwu in Abia State. Tall, eloquent and effortlessly charismatic, Ekubo was fluent in Igbo, Hausa and English.

He attended Federal Government College Daura for his secondary education before studying Mass Communication at Calabar Polytechnic.

He later enrolled to study Law at the University of Calabar.

Driven by his passion for storytelling and performance, he returned to the University of Calabar in 2015 to earn a degree in Theatre Arts, a decision that further refined the talent that would make him one of Nollywood’s most recognisable faces.

Ekubo first gained national attention in 2010 when he emerged as first runner-up in the Mr Nigeria pageant.

The achievement introduced him to the world of modelling and opened doors to the entertainment industry.

Although he began acting in 2005 with a minor role in Sinners in the House, his breakthrough came with Weekend Getaway.

His performance earned him the Best Actor in a Supporting Role award at the Best of Nollywood Awards in 2013.

From that moment, his star rose rapidly.

Over the years, Ekubo established himself as one of Nollywood’s most dependable and bankable actors, known for his versatility in romantic comedies, dramas and action films.

His notable screen credits include The Bling Lagosians, Okafor’s Law, Aina and Lagos Cougars.

Whether portraying the charming love interest, the witty friend or the emotionally layered protagonist, Ekubo brought a natural ease and authenticity to every role.

His good looks, impeccable fashion sense and comic timing endeared him to audiences and cemented his place among the leading men of his generation.

Ekubo’s influence extended beyond acting. He was a sought-after master of ceremonies, motivational speaker, producer and brand ambassador.

In 2020, he was inducted into the Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) Top 100 Under 40 list, in recognition of his impact in entertainment and humanitarian work.

He also received honours for his support of social causes, using his platform to inspire young people and promote positive change.

Known for his active social media presence and stylish lifestyle, the actor often shared moments from his career and personal life with fans.

In recent years, however, he gradually withdrew from public view. Following personal challenges, he became less active online.

His final social media posts in late 2024 sparked concern among fans, particularly after occasional public appearances showed a noticeable weight loss.

At the time, some colleagues reassured the public that he had chosen to step away from the pressures of social media. Few knew he was quietly facing a serious health battle.

The announcement of his death has prompted an emotional outpouring from across the entertainment industry.

Stars including Funke Akindele, Bolanle Ninalowo and many others have remembered him as a gifted actor, a dependable colleague and a warm-hearted friend.

Fans have flooded social media with condolence messages, prayers and cherished memories, celebrating a man whose performances brought joy to millions and whose kindness left a lasting impression.

Ekubo’s journey from pageantry to movie stardom remains an inspiring story of talent, discipline and perseverance.

He belonged to a generation of entertainers who successfully bridged modelling, pageantry and serious acting, proving that charisma and substance could coexist.

Through his work, he helped shape contemporary Nollywood and contributed to the global recognition of African cinema.

Though his life was cut short at just 40, his legacy lives on in the films he created, the lives he touched and the inspiration he offered to aspiring actors and young Africans.

As Nollywood mourns one of its brightest stars, Ekubo will be remembered not only for his charisma and magnetic screen presence, but also for his generosity, resilience and enduring passion for storytelling.

The news has sent shockwaves across the Nigerian film industry, with colleagues, friends and fans taking to social media to pay tribute to the actor.

Nollywood actor and model Alexx Ekubo has died at the age of 40 following complications arising from advanced metastatic kidney cancer.

His family announced his passing in a statement posted on Wednesday on the actor’s verified Instagram page.

The statement read, “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, son, brother and friend, Alexx Ikenna Ekubo-Okwaraeke.

“After a brief but courageous battle, Alexx passed away at Evercare Hospital due to complications arising from advanced metastatic kidney cancer.

“Throughout this difficult journey, he bore his pain with remarkable strength, unwavering faith and enduring hope, believing that one day his testimony would be shared with the world.

“During this deeply painful time, we humbly ask for privacy and prayers for the peaceful repose of his soul, and for all who mourn this immense loss.

“Further details regarding funeral arrangements and other family matters will be communicated in due course. We sincerely thank everyone for the love, support, prayers and understanding extended to the family throughout this period.”

The news has sent shockwaves across the Nigerian film industry, with colleagues, friends and fans taking to social media to pay tribute to the late actor.

Funke Akindele, in a message shared on her Instagram Story, 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. ‘Ore mi’, like you fondly called me, I will always remember and cherish the good times we shared together. Rest in peace, Alex.”

Bolanle Ninalowo also reacted, writing: “Rest on, Alex. May God heal your family and us all.”

Godwin Nnadiekwe expressed his grief, saying: “I’m struggling to find the words. This news has truly broken me. Nollywood has lost a rare soul. Rest well, my friend.”

Other celebrities who mourned the actor include AY Makun, Omoni Oboli, Mo Abudu, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Kate Henshaw, Yvonne Jegede, Ruth Kadiri, Yul Edochie and Peter Okoye.

Born on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, Ekubo hailed from Arochukwu in Abia State, South-East Nigeria. He attended Federal Government College Daura, Katsina State before studying Law at University of Calabar.

Before establishing himself as an actor, Ekubo was the first runner-up at the Mr Nigeria 2010 pageant, which launched his modelling career.

He made his acting debut in 2003 in Sinners in the House and rose to prominence with his performance in Weekend Getaway.

Over a career spanning more than two decades, he featured in numerous acclaimed productions, including The Bling Lagosians, Omo Ghetto: The Saga, A Sunday Affair, Áfàméfùnà: An Nwa Boi Story and The Blood Covenant.

On television, he was known for roles in Tinsel, AY’s Crib and Married to the Game.

In 2020, he was named among the Most Influential People of African Descent under 40 in recognition of his contributions to entertainment and youth development.

Beyond acting, Ekubo was also a producer, host, motivational speaker and philanthropist, widely admired for his support of youth empowerment and humanitarian causes.

His death marks a significant loss to Nollywood, where he was celebrated for his charisma, professionalism and enduring dedication to his craft.

Several notable actors have passed away in recent years, including Junior Pope Odonwodo, John Okafor, Amaechi Muonagor, Sisi Quadri, Onyeka Onwenu, Solomon Akiyesi, and Oby Kechere.