The Nigerian movie industry has been plunged into mourning following reports of the death of popular Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo.
On May 12, 2026, social media was shaken by news that the Nollywood star had allegedly passed away after battling a prolonged illness.
Veteran actress Kate Henshaw sparked concern after posting on X that she had received troubling news and hoped it was not true.
Veteran actress Kate Henshaw posted on X that she just received some bad news and was hoping it wasn’t true.
Moments later, social media platforms were flooded with reports claiming that Alex Ekubo died at a hospital in Lagos after suffering from an illness for some time.
Funke Akindele reacts to Alex Ekubo’s passing
Nollywood actresses Funke Akindele and Rita Dominic also shared emotional social media posts reacting to the reported death of Alex Ekubo, describing the development as a heartbreaking loss for Nollywood and the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Rita Dominic reacts to Alex Ekubo’s passing
Alexx Ekubo-Okwaraeke, popularly known as Alexx Ekubo, was born on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, and hails from Arochukwu in Abia State. He attended Federal Government College Daura before studying Law at the University of Calabar.
The actor began his movie career in 2003 with a minor appearance in Lancelot Imasuen’s Sinners in the House. However, he rose to prominence after emerging first runner-up in the 2011 Mr Nigeria competition.
His major breakthrough came with his role in the 2012 hit movie Weekend Getaway, which earned him the Best Actor in a Supporting Role award at the 2013 Best of Nollywood Awards. Alex Ekubo later became widely recognised through the sitcom AY’s Crib and went on to feature in successful films such as The Bling Lagosians and Your Excellency in 2019.
In 2023, he starred in Kayode Kasum’s Áfàméfùnà: An Nwa Boi Story, where his performance received praise from both fans and critics.
Outside acting, Alex Ekubo was well known for his close friendship with IK Ogbonna and Yomi Casual. His personal life also attracted public attention, particularly his highly publicised breakup with model Fancy Acholonu in 2021.
After appearing in Conversation in Transit alongside stars including Richard Mofe Damijo and Osas Ighodaro, the actor largely stayed away from the public spotlight, prompting concerns from fans and colleagues.
The reported death of Alex Ekubo is expected to leave a huge void in Nollywood, as the industry mourns one of its most recognised actors and an influential figure among a new generation of Nigerian movie stars.
As of the time of filing this report, Alex Ekubo’s family has not officially confirmed or released a statement regarding his reported passing.
Source: pulse.ng