Nollywood Remembers 10 Cherished Stars Lost in 2026

The Nigerian film industry, popularly known as Nollywood, experienced significant losses throughout 2026, bidding farewell to several veteran and contemporary actors, actresses, and other key practitioners. These departures left colleagues, families, and a vast fan base in deep mourning, marking a challenging year for the entertainment sector. The deceased include performers who had become household names through classic Nigerian television and Yoruba theatre, alongside newer Nollywood talents.

Here's a look at ten Nollywood personalities whose deaths were reported in 2026:

1. **Ajara Lasisi — ‘Aunty Ajara’**: Actress Ajara Lasisi, widely recognized as Aunty Ajara, passed away on February 5, 2026, following a prolonged illness. Filmmaker Tobi Oladele (Tee Mony) initially announced her death, which was later confirmed by her brother, Ridwan Lasisi. Known for her comedic and supporting roles in Yoruba-language films, Lasisi was interred on the same day, adhering to Islamic customs.

2. **Bamidele Oluwatope — ‘Okemesi’**: Actor and content creator Bamidele Oluwatope, known by his stage name Okemesi, died in February 2026. He was a prominent figure in the Yoruba film industry, celebrated for his energetic and humorous portrayals. Okemesi was particularly noted for his unique blend of English, Yoruba, and his native Ekiti dialect in his performances and online content.

3. **Davis Offor — ‘Clarus’**: Veteran actor Davis Offor, famously known as Clarus, passed away on April 6, 2026, at the age of 85. He is best remembered for his iconic role as Clarus Mgbeojikwe in the classic Nigerian television comedy series, The New Masquerade. His depiction of the mischievous houseboy solidified his place as one of the most memorable faces in Nigerian television comedy.

4. **Solomon Akiyesi**: Veteran actor Solomon Akiyesi died in April 2026. PUNCH newspaper reported his demise on April 27, with the Actors Guild of Nigeria confirming the news. Akiyesi was recognized for his extensive work in numerous Nollywood productions, having established a strong reputation within the Nigerian film industry.

5. **Oby Kechere — ‘Madam Koi Koi’**: Actress, filmmaker, and producer Oby Kechere, known to many as Madam Koi Koi, died on April 27, 2026, after a prolonged battle with illness. She gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of Ms Koi Koi in the popular comedy film, Aki na Ukwa. Kechere also contributed to filmmaking behind the scenes and was a member of the Directors Guild of Nigeria. Vanguard newspaper corroborated her April 27 death in its list of Nollywood figures who died that year.

6. **Alexx Ekubo**: Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo passed away in May 2026, at the age of 40. He rose to prominence in contemporary Nollywood after securing the first runner-up position in the 2010 Mr Nigeria competition. Ekubo featured in notable films such as A Man for the Weekend, The Blood Covenant, Devil in Agbada, and Afamefuna: An Nwa-Boi Story. PUNCH subsequently published several reports detailing his death and funeral, including tributes from his colleagues and family.

7. **Okiki Adeshina — ‘Janmole’**: Yoruba actor Okiki Adeshina, known as Janmole, died in June 2026 due to injuries sustained in a road accident. His passing was another significant loss for the Yoruba film industry during the year.

8. **Kola Oyewo**: Veteran actor, dramatist, and theatre scholar Kola Oyewo died on June 12, 2026, at the age of 80. His death was confirmed by fellow actor Kunle Afod and subsequently reported by PUNCH. Oyewo commenced his acting journey in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group, evolving into one of the most revered figures in Nigerian theatre and film. He is particularly remembered for his powerful performance as Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s classic play, The Gods Are Not to Blame.

9. **Taiwo Adeshina — ‘Elegbeje Ado’**: Veteran Yoruba actor Taiwo Adeshina, known as Elegbeje Ado, passed away on June 29, 2026, after a brief illness. He was recognized for his contributions to Yoruba-language cinema, featuring in numerous indigenous productions. PUNCH reported his death on June 30.

10. **Temitope Osoba**: Actress and filmmaker Temitope Osoba died in August 2026, at the age of 40. She began her acting career in 2005, appearing in various Yoruba-language productions. Osoba also worked as a dancer and film producer and had openly discussed her battle with breast cancer.

The legacies of these departed stars span different generations of Nigeria’s vibrant film industry. While some were celebrated veterans who significantly shaped Nigerian theatre, television, and indigenous cinema, others represented a younger generation pushing Nollywood in new directions. Their collective performances, memorable characters, and invaluable contributions will forever remain an integral part of Nigeria's entertainment narrative.