Veteran filmmaker Lancelot Imasuen has shared the untold story of how the late actor Alex Ekubo began his journey in Nollywood. Imasuen revealed that Ekubo's entry into acting was unplanned, driven by curiosity, proximity, and a simple opportunity that changed everything.
How Alex Ekubo Got His First Role
According to Imasuen, his relationship with Ekubo's family dates back to their days in Surulere, Lagos, where they lived in the same neighborhood. He was particularly close to the actor's father, who often allowed him to use their home as a filming location. Young Alex, then still in secondary school, would watch film crews in action whenever they came around.
"He was always observing us on set," Imasuen recalled, noting that the curiosity eventually became a passion.
The Turning Point
The turning point came during a production in the early 2000s featuring Nollywood veterans such as Justus Esiri, Ngozi Ezeonu, Empress Njamah, Charles Inojie, and Charles Awurum. Imasuen said a last-minute need for a minor character led him to look in the direction of the curious teenager who had been watching them closely.
"You've been watching us all this while. You'll act today," he reportedly told him.
That spontaneous decision marked Ekubo's first appearance on screen. According to Imasuen, the young boy delivered confidently, surprising the entire crew.
First Acting Fee
After filming, Ekubo was paid his first acting fee. Imasuen revealed that he later handed the money to the actor's mother after learning that Ekubo had resumed school at the University of Calabar. "She was very happy. It meant so much to her that her son had already started earning from acting," he said.
The late actor later ventured into modeling and participated in the Mr Nigeria pageant, steadily building a career that would eventually make him one of Nollywood's most recognisable faces.
Industry Mourns
Imasuen described his passing as "devastating and unbelievable," noting that the industry has lost a rare talent whose journey began from the simplest of chances. The late actor died from complications of liver cancer in early May and is scheduled to be laid to rest in Arochukwu, Abia State, on June 18.
Since his tragic passing, notable Nollywood stars have continued to pay glowing tributes to him. Nollywood actress Ini Edo also shared an update concerning her late colleague, announcing that a special tribute link has been created for fans, colleagues, and loved ones to share memories and messages dedicated to the late actor.
