Popular Alex Ekubo has reportedly died at the age of 40 after battling liver cancer for some time.

News of his passing surfaced on social media on Tuesday, May 12, with colleagues and fans paying tribute by sharing fond memories and expressing shock over his death.

Several Nollywood stars have since taken to their social media pages to mourn the actor, describing him as talented, lively, and supportive within the industry.

Among those who confirmed the development were Funke Akindele, Bolanle Ninalowo, and Godwin Nnadiekwe.

In an emotional post shared on her Instagram story, Funke Akindele wrote an emotional post on her Instagram story, telling how she made efforts to meet him again, but couldn’t reach him.

“Hmmmmmm. Rest in peace, Alex. I tried to reach out to see you one more time, but I guess you knew best. May your kind soul rest in peace, Alex.‘Ore mi’, like you fondly called me, I will always remember and cherish the good times we shared. Rest in Peace, Alex.”

Ninalowo also reacted to the news from the United States, posting: “Rest on, Alex. May God heal your family and us all.”

Nnadiekwe described the news as heartbreaking, saying he was struggling to come to terms with the actor’s death.

“I’m struggling to find the words. This news has truly broken me. Nollywood has lost a rare soul, and I’m lost for words because this wasn’t the plan, Alex Ekubo. To think you already prepared your Will, it’s heartbreaking. I can’t quite describe it. Rest well, my friend,” he wrote.

As of the time of filing this report, Ekubo’s family had not officially released a statement confirming the circumstances surrounding his death.

The actor’s death comes weeks after concerns about his health resurfaced online following his first public appearance after months away from social media.

Ekubo, known for his roles in several Nollywood productions, had not posted on Instagram since December 30, 2024, prompting speculation among fans about his wellbeing.

A recent viral video showing the actor interacting with children drew further attention after viewers noticed that he appeared slimmer and subdued.