Award-winning Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo has died at the age of 40, following a prolonged but privately managed battle with cancer. Colleagues and close associates confirmed the news on Tuesday, stating he passed away Monday night at a hospital in Lagos.
Born April 10, 1986, in Rivers State, Ekubo graduated with a law degree from the University of Calabar before rising to fame as first runner-up in the 2010 Mr. Nigeria competition. He made his acting debut in 2005's Sinners in the House and became a household name through charismatic performances in romantic comedies and dramas, including Weekend Getaway (2013), The Bling Lagosians, and Yemi Alade's hit music video Johnny.
Throughout his career, Ekubo earned nine major accolades, including Best Supporting Actor at the Best of Nollywood Awards (2013), Best Actor of the Year (2016), and Best Lead Actor (2022). In 2018, Nigeria's First Lady presented him with a Special Recognition Award for his contributions to entertainment. His humanitarian efforts were honored globally: in 2020, he was inducted into the UN's Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) under 40, and in 2021, he received both an honorary doctorate in arts and culture from Benin's Institut Supérieur de Communication et de Gestion and Nigeria's National Award of Excellence as Global Social Giving Actor of the Year.
Ekubo had stepped away from public view in late 2024, with his last social media post appearing in December, sparking concern among fans. While his family and management have yet to issue an official statement, tributes have flooded in from across the Nigerian entertainment industry.
"Rest in Peace Alex," wrote fellow actor Funke Akindele, with whom he starred in Omo Ghetto - The Saga (2020). "Ore mi like you fondly called me, I will always remember and cherish the good times we shared together." Actor Godwin Nnadiekwe called him "a rare soul," while filmmaker Lancelot Imasuen—who gave Ekubo his first film role—described the loss as "devastating and unbelievable." The Nigerian Guild of Editors also expressed profound shock.
Beyond his craft, Ekubo was celebrated for his distinctive fashion sense, witty screen presence, and dedication to social causes. His personal life, including his high-profile relationship and 2021 engagement to model Fancy Acholonu, often made headlines. Though the couple later parted ways, Ekubo remained a beloved figure to millions.