Nigeria's Nollywood industry has endured a painful stretch in 2026, losing ten of its own across eight months. The latest casualty is veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, who died on August 23 after a battle with stage four cancer.
Nollywood's Grief: A Year of Loss
Veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, died on August 23 after a battle with stage four cancer. He was 66 years old. One of the most recognised faces in Yoruba cinema, Ogogo built a career spanning more than four decades after starting out as an automobile mechanic and government worker before committing fully to acting in 1994. His breakthrough came with the 1996 film Owo Blow, and he remained relevant across generations with appearances in films including Aníkúlápó and Omo Ghetto.
Nollywood has lost 10 actors between January and August 2026, including veterans Kola Oyewo, Feso Oyewole, and Taiwo Hassan. Younger actors, including Alexx Ekubo and Temitope Osoba, were also among those who died. The Nigerian film industry has been left in prolonged mourning after the loss of its beloved stars.
Remembering the Fallen: A Look at the Lives Lost
Ajara Lasisi, popularly known as Aunty Ajara, died on February 5 after a prolonged liver-related illness. She was known for her comic supporting roles in Yoruba films, building a loyal following through her portrayals of market women, outspoken neighbours, and dramatic relatives across several productions. Her colleagues and fans had rallied around her during her illness before her death was confirmed by her family.
Bamidele Oluwatope, known as Okemesi, died on February 24 following complications arising from medication during hospital treatment. He was a comic actor and content creator who blended English, Yoruba, and his Ekiti dialect in performances that earned him a strong following both online and on screen.
Nollywood actress Oby Kechere died on April 27 after a prolonged illness. She became one of Nollywood's most recognisable faces through her role as Ms Koi Koi in the 2002 comedy classic Aki na Ukwa alongside Chinedu Ikedieze and Osita Iheme. Beyond acting, she worked as a producer and director and served as Vice Chairman of the Directors Guild of Nigeria's Abuja chapter.
The Impact of the Losses
Alexx Ekubo, who died on May 11 at Evercare Hospital in Lagos after battling liver cancer, was not just a screen idol but a law graduate and humanitarian whose impact spanned over two decades in the creative industry. He rose to prominence after finishing as first runner-up at the 2010 Mr Nigeria contest and went on to become one of Nollywood's most recognisable faces through films including Weekend Getaway and Lagos Cougars. His death drew widespread tributes from across the industry.
Patrick Okoye, a veteran actor who had appeared in productions including Midnight Love and Old School, died in late May after a protracted illness. He was 51 years old at the time of his death.
A Community in Mourning
Kola Oyewo, a towering titan of Nigerian theatre, cinema, and academia, died on June 12 at the age of 80. His death was confirmed by fellow actor Kunle Afod and his son Adetoyese Oyewo. Oyewo was one of the most respected figures in Nigerian theatre and cinema, contributing extensively to both stage and screen over several decades.
Taiwo Adeshina, popularly known as Elegbeje Ado, died on June 29 after a brief illness at the age of 69. He was a recognised figure in Yoruba cinema, known for his comic timing and memorable character portrayals across more than two decades in the industry.
Temitope Osoba, an actress and filmmaker, died on August 5 at the age of 40. She had spoken publicly about her battle with breast cancer in 2024. Her cause of death was not officially confirmed.
A Farewell to the Fallen
Nollywood has lost a generation of talented actors, and their passing has left a void in the industry. The loss of these beloved stars will be deeply felt, and their memories will be cherished by their colleagues and fans. As the industry continues to mourn, it is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of appreciating the talent and contributions of those who have left us.
Source: Pulse.ng
