Nollywood star Alexx Ekubo dies
By Paulette Mboga, May 13, 2026The Nigerian film industry is mourning the death of popular Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo.
Reports indicate that the actor died on Tuesday, May 12, after battling illness for a long period. He was 40 years old, according to an article by BBC Pidgin.
According to information shared by family sources and Nigerian media outlets, the actor had been away from the public eye for several months before news of his death emerged. His absence from social media and entertainment events had already raised concern among many people within the entertainment industry.
Ekubo was widely known for his work in Nollywood films and his strong screen presence. Over the years, he built a successful acting career and became one of the most recognised faces in the Nigerian entertainment scene.
Life away from the spotlight
According to The Sun, Nigeria, the actor stopped using social media in December 2024, leading to questions about his sudden disappearance from public life. Around the same period, reports also emerged that his engagement had ended.
Despite staying away from the spotlight, Ekubo later appeared briefly in December 2025 when fellow actor IK Ogbonna shared a video of them attending a wedding together. His appearance in the video reportedly worried many people who noticed changes in his physical condition.
Reports from several Nigerian media outlets later claimed that the actor had been battling an illness, and his health condition worsened in recent days before he was rushed to the hospital on Monday, May 11.
Battle with illness
Further reports claimed that the actor did not survive after being admitted for emergency treatment. Legit.ng reported that the actor had been placed on life support for several hours before his death was confirmed.
Nigerian talent manager and filmmaker Sam Olatunji was among the first public figures to announce the news on Snapchat. Reports also indicated that private chats discussing the actor’s death later circulated online.
Before his reported death, Ekubo remained one of Nollywood’s admired stars because of his versatility and charm on screen. His performances in several productions earned him recognition not only in Nigeria but also across other African countries.
The reports surrounding his death have continued to attract attention as colleagues and entertainment followers react to the sad news.