The year 2024 has been a sombre one for Nollywood as the industry has bid farewell to several prominent actors whose talents defined the Nigerian movie industry.
These Nollywood actors brought unique talents, charm, and depth to their roles, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and diversity of the industry.
Here are Nollywood actors who died in 2024.
Jimi Solanke
The film actor, dramatist, folk singer, poet and playwright, Pa. Jimi Solanke known for his work on Tales by Moonlight, passed away on February 5, 2024, after a prolonged illness related to old age.
Tribune Online reports that the late songwriter breathed his last while he was being taken to hospital, Babcock Hospital, Ilishan-Remo, for medical treatment.
John Okafor (Mr. Ibu)
Famous for his slapstick humour, John Okafor, better known as “Mr. Ibu,” was an icon in comedy who delighted fans with his humorous portrayals of everyday life.
His notable works include roles in films like Mr. Ibu in London and Mr. Ibu and His Son, where his comedic genius shone through.
He breathed his last in a hospital in Lagos State on Saturday, March 2, after he suffered cardiac arrest following a prolonged battle with diabetes, which led to severe complications.
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Amaechi Muonagor
Amaechi Muonagor was known for his diverse roles in Nigerian cinema, particularly his roles in comedies and dramas.
In his final years, he openly shared his struggle with kidney disease, appealing for financial help to support his treatment.
Muonagor also died on March 24, 2024, at the age of 62, a few days after Mr Ibu’s death.
Adejumoke Aderounmu
Known for her role as Esther in the hit TV series Jenifa’s Diary, Adejumoke Aderounmu’s performances captured the complexities of youth culture in Nigeria.
Tragically, Aderounmu passed away on April 6, 2024, at the age of 40 due to an undisclosed illness.
Pope Odonwodo
Popularly known as Junior Pope, the actor tragically passed away alongside three others after their boat capsized in the Anam River in Anambra State while returning from movie locations.
The incident happened on April 10, 2024, hours after Junior Pope shared a video of himself on a boat praying to arrive at his destination safely.
His death shocked fans and colleagues, emphasising the risks actors sometimes face in their line of work.
Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji (Sisi Quadri)
Tolani is widely celebrated for his remarkable performances, particularly in the Yoruba comedy genre and his memorable role in the beloved movie “Seniyan Seranko”.
Sisi Quadri was a fantastic Yoruba comic actor, who died on March 1, 2024, at 44. However, the cause of his death remains undisclosed.
Deji Aderemi (Baba Olofa Ina)
A veteran actor revered in the Yoruba film industry, Aderemi was known for portraying traditional leaders with authority and grace.
Olofa Ina passed on January 4, 2024, at age 73 after a battle with cancer, his work continues to be celebrated for capturing the essence of Yoruba culture and tradition.
He was a respected figure both on and off the screen, often seen as a cultural ambassador.
Ethel Ekpe
Ethel Ekpe gained fame for her role in Basi and Company, a classic Nigerian sitcom where she showcased her comedic talent.
Her career spanned various roles in TV dramas and films, and she became a familiar face on Nigerian screens.
Ekpe’s death on February 7, 2024, after a lengthy illness, due to cancer, reminded many of her contributions to early Nigerian television and cinema.
Charles Olumo ‘Agbako’
Pa Charles Olumo Sanyaolu, fondly known as Agbako, passed away at the age of 101 on October 31st, 2024.
Renowned as the oldest actor in Nigeria’s film industry, his life and career left a lasting impact on the nation’s cultural heritage.
Nollywood veteran Jide Kosoko confirmed the news, prompting an outpouring of condolences from colleagues, filmmakers, and fans.
