List of Nollywood stars who died in 2024

Since the start of the year 2024 till the middle of October, Nollywood industry has lost several iconic stars, leaving fans and the industry mourning their absence.

Below is a list of actors who have sadly passed away in 2024 and their passing has left a sad vacuum and the joy and happiness they brought to the screen will he missed.

Amongst the list is veteran actor Mudashiru Ayobami, also known as Bobo B who recently passed away after a brief illness.

Reports revealed that he had been admitted to the University College Hospital, UCH, in Ibadan, Oyo State, where he was receiving treatment.

Bobo B was a well-known figure in Yoruba films and a respected chief in Iware land, Oyo State.

His death is being mourned by the Nollywood community and his fans.

Deji Aderemi (Baba Olofa Ina)

Deji Aderemi, a veteran Yoruba actor known for his roles as a traditional chief and priest, died on January 4, 2024 at age 73. He battled cancer and passed away in his hometown of Ede, Osun State.

Famous for his captivating portrayals in films like Kabiyesi Olodumare and Ija Omode, his death left a significant void in Yoruba Nollywood.

Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji (Sisi Quadri)

Popularly known for his comedic roles, Tolani Quadri passed away on March 1, 2024 at age 44. He was a prominent figure in Yoruba films and also dabbled in skit making, collaborating with top content creators.

His roles in movies like Seranko Seniyan and Eran Iya Osogbo made him a fan favorite, and his sudden death was a shock to many.

John Okafor (Mr. Ibu)

Beloved for his comic roles in Nollywood films, John Okafor, also known as Mr. Ibu, died on March 2, 2024 at the age of 62 after a long battle with health issues.

He had undergone a leg amputation in late 2023, hoping to recover, but sadly passed away.

Mr. Ibu was an iconic figure in Nigerian comedy was known for films like Mr. Ibu in London and Nicodemus.

Cynthia Okereke – July 2024

Veteran actress Cynthia Okereke passed away following a brief illness in July, 2024.

Known for her roles in classic Nollywood films like King Jaja of Opobo and Second Chance, her death came just a year after she survived a traumatic kidnapping in 2022.

Yemi Lawrence Adeyemi (Suara)

Though his death occurred in late 2023, Yemi Adeyemi, famously known as Suara from Super Story, continued to be mourned into 2024.

His passing at age 69 on September 24, 2023 marked the end of an era for the actor who had left a lasting impression on television viewers in Nigeria.

Emmanuel France

Veteran Nollywood actor Emmanuel France passed away in September 2024 at the age of 80. Known for his roles in films such as Cross My Sin, She Is My Sister, and The Director, France’s death was confirmed by Nigerian filmmaker Femi Ogedengbe.

Originally from Ghana, Emmanuel France was respected within the Nollywood community for his professionalism and humility.

Despite his long career, the exact cause of his death has not been disclosed as of now. His passing has left a deep impact on Nollywood.

Big Larry

Nollywood actor Big Larry passed away suddenly in mid-September 2024. His death was announced by producer Stanley Ontop on Instagram, though the exact cause of his death has not yet been confirmed.

Big Larry’s passing came as a shock to the Nollywood community, which had already lost several prominent figures this year.

Big Larry’s contributions to Nollywood, particularly in the Asaba film community, were highlighted by colleagues and fans alike, though further details about his life and career remain limited.

Shina Sanyaolu

Nollywood filmmaker and producer Shina Sanyaolu passed away in September 2024. His death was announced by Bolaji Amusan, the president of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria, TAMPAN, on social media, though the exact cause of death has not been disclosed.

Sanyaolu was a respected figure in the Yoruba film industry, known for directing films such as The Honourable, Two Wives, and Omo Olosan.

Many of his colleagues, including Jide Kosoko and Doyin Amodu, paid tribute to his generosity and contributions to the Nigerian film industry.

Junior Pope

Junior Pope Odonwodo, a popular Nollywood actor, tragically passed away on April 10, 2024, following a boat accident while filming a movie titled “The Other Side of Life” in Delta State, Nigeria.

He and three other crew members drowned when their boat capsized in the Anam River. The incident raised significant concerns about safety standards within the film industry, especially regarding the use of boats without life jackets.

Initially, there were reports that Junior Pope had survived, as he was seen exhibiting signs of life, but sadly, those hopes were dashed when he was later confirmed dead by the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Emeka Rollas.

The news of his death led to an outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues alike, prompting calls for better safety regulations in the industry.

Junior Pope was known for his roles in several Nollywood films, and he leaves behind a wife and three children. The tragedy has sparked conversations about the inherent risks faced by actors and crews during film productions, particularly in locations that lack proper safety measures.

Amaechi Muonagor

Amaechi Muonagor, Nollywood actor, passed away on March 24, 2024, at the age of 61 after a prolonged battle with health issues, including kidney disease, diabetes, and complications from a stroke he suffered in 2023.

His deteriorating condition led to him requiring regular dialysis and physiotherapy. Just a week before his death, a video surfaced online showing him in a hospital bed, appealing for financial assistance for a kidney transplant that he hoped to have in India.

Born on August 20, 1962, in Anambra State, Muonagor began his career in journalism before transitioning into acting. He gained fame for his roles in numerous films, notably his performance as the father in the popular movie Aki and Pawpaw.

His impactful career spanned decades, and he was known for his versatility, portraying a wide range of characters across various genres.

His burial took place on June 21, 2024, amidst a gathering of colleagues and fans, highlighting the loss felt within the Nollywood community.

His passing serves as a stark reminder of the challenges many actors face regarding healthcare access, particularly in an industry where many lack adequate health insurance.

Ethel Ekpe

Veteran actress, Ethel Ekpe, who adorned the Nigerian entertainment screen for years, died on Wednesday, February 7, in Lagos State.

Ekpe is well known for playing the role of ‘Segi’ on the Nigerian Television Authority sitcom, ‘Basi and Company’. She died after a long battle with cancer.

Aderounmu Adejumoke

Nollywood actress, Adejumoke Oreoluwa Aderounmu, popularly known for her role as ‘Esther’ in popular TV series Jenifa’s Diary, died on Sunday, March 7.

Adeola Aderounmu, the brother of the actress, announced her passing through his Instagram story on Sunday. Aderounmu started her professional acting career in the movie “Arugba,” produced by Tunde Kelani in 2008, starring alongside Bukky Wright, Bukola Awoyemi, and Segun Adefila.

Zulu Adigwu 

Veteran actor Zulu Adigwu died on Tuesday, April 23.His death was announced on Facebook by popular film producer and singer, Mike Nliam.

Ganiyu Oyeyemi Ogunjimi

Veteran Yoruba actor, Ganiyu Oyeyemi, popularly known as Ogunjimi passed away on April 26, 2024.

His death was made known by actor, Kunle Afod in an Instagram post.