Popular Nollywood actor, Alex Ekubo, has passed away after a long battle with cancer.

Reports confirmed on Tuesday evening that the award-winning movie star died at the age of 40. It is understood that the actor had been privately managing a battle with cancer.

This has sent shockwaves across social media and has put the Nigerian entertainment industry in a state of deep sorrow . For several months, fans had raised concerns about the actor’s absence from the public eye. His last major social media activity dated back to late 2024, leading to widespread speculation and prayers from his millions of followers. While close friends had previously tried to reassure the public, it is now clear that the actor was facing a severe health crisis.

Alexx Ekubo-Okwaraeke, the actor was a graduate of Law from the University of Calabar and also held a diploma in Mass Communication. He first rose to national fame after finishing as the first runner-up at the 2010 Mr. Nigeria contest. This success opened doors to his successful acting career that lasted over a decade.

Ekubo became a household name because he could play many different types of roles. He was known for being charming, witty, and sophisticated on screen. His performance in the 2012 film In the Cupboard earned him the “Best Actor in a Supporting Role” award at the Best of Nollywood Awards. He was a constant favorite in big movies and was widely respected for his hard work and his great sense of style.

Beyond his work, Ekubo’s personal life was often in the news, especially his long relationship with American-born model Fancy Acholonu. The pair were once seen as one of the industry’s most famous couples.

In May 2021, Ekubo proposed to Acholonu, and they began planning a large wedding called #FalexxForever, set for November of that year. However, in a move that shocked many people, Acholonu officially called off the engagement just three months before the wedding. At the time, she mentioned the need to live her own truth.

The split became more complicated in late 2022 and early 2023 when Acholonu made several public statements regarding the lack of intimacy in their five-year relationship. Despite the public nature of their disagreement, many fans had hoped they would get back together one day.

Friends in the movie industry and fans have started sharing tributes to the man known for his bright smile and energy. Fellow actors describe him as a kind person whose absence leaves a huge hole in the African film world.