The Nigerian entertainment industry has been plunged into grief following the death of celebrated Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo at the age of 40.

The actor reportedly passed away on Monday night at Evercare Hospital in Lekki, Lagos, after battling liver cancer. The sad development was confirmed by former BBNaija star and Actors Guild of Nigeria spokesperson, Boma Akpore, who revealed that Ekubo’s body had been taken to Ebony Vaults in Ikoyi.

News of his death sparked an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, fans and public figures, many remembering him as a gifted actor, dependable friend and compassionate personality.

Actor Godwin Nnadiekwe described the loss as heartbreaking in a tribute shared on Instagram, saying Nollywood had lost an exceptional soul.

Veteran filmmaker Lancelot Imasuen, who introduced Ekubo to Nollywood, said the actor’s death was both painful and difficult to believe. He recalled how Ekubo, while still a student, regularly visited movie sets in Surulere before eventually earning his first acting opportunity.

Ekubo had remained largely out of the public spotlight and inactive on social media since late 2024, shortly after the end of his engagement.

Born on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, the actor traced his roots to Arochukwu. Over the years, he built a strong reputation in Nollywood, becoming known for his charm, commanding screen presence and versatility.

In 2020, the United Nations recognised him among the “Most Influential People of African Descent under 40” for his impact in entertainment and social development.

Several prominent figures in the entertainment industry paid tribute to the late actor, including Funke Akindele, Bolanle Ninalowo, Peter Okoye, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Omoni Oboli, Mo Abudu and Kate Henshaw.

Others such as Yvonne Jegede, Kunle Remi, Ruth Kadiri, Omoyele Sowore and Oseni Rufai also expressed shock over the tragic loss.

Several of his colleagues noted that although concerns had grown over his absence from public life in recent months, the actor consistently assured friends and associates that he was fine.