Popular Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo has died at the age of 40 after a prolonged battle with liver cancer. The late star was one of the most prominent figures in Nigeria's entertainment industry and was deeply loved by fans for his personality and acting skills. As Nigerians continue to mourn his tragic death, here are six fascinating truths about his relationships and rise to fame that many may not know.
Alexx Ekubo's Educational Background
The late actor attended Federal Government College, Daura, for his secondary education. He went on to study Law at the University of Calabar. Later in life, he also obtained a degree in Mass Communication from Calabar Polytechnic. In 2021, he was awarded an Honorary Degree in Arts and Culture from the Institut Superieur de Communication et de Gestion (ISCG University) in Cotonou, Republic of Benin.
Modelling Career
Ekubo broke into showbiz in 2010 after finishing as first runner-up in the Mr Nigeria competition. This recognition became a springboard into his acting career in Nollywood.
Breakthrough into Nollywood
His film debut was a minor role in Lancelot Oduwa Imaseun's Sinners in the House in 2003. He began professional acting in the early 2010s and featured in critically acclaimed Nollywood productions including Afamefuna, Lagos Cougars, Weekend Getaway, In the Cupboard, Dream Walker, Hire a Woman, Sugar Rush, Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons, and Fate of Alakada.
Humanitarian Work and Recognition
Beyond film, Ekubo played a significant role in social impact and humanitarian initiatives. He participated in numerous charitable initiatives and outreach programmes across Nigeria and the West African region. In 2020, he received a certificate of excellence from the Sapio Club SGD for exemplary contribution to African entertainment and humanitarian efforts. In 2021, he was awarded the Global Social Giving Actor of the Year by the Nigerian National Awards. He was recognised in 2023 as the Rotary Youth Ambassador of the Year under Rotary International District 9142.
Awards and Achievements
Over the years, Alexx won several awards and recognitions both locally and internationally, including:
- BEFFTA Award (London) - Nollywood Rising Star (2014)
- Screen Nation Film and TV Award (London) - Favourite Male African International Emerging Screen Talent (2014)
- Nigerian Teen Choice Award - Outstanding TV Personality (2015)
- Best of Nollywood Award - Best Actor of the Year (2016)
- Nigerian Model Achievers Award - Model Actor of the Year (2016)
- Special Recognition Award from the First Lady of Nigeria for contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry (2018)
- Best of Nollywood Award - Best Lead Actor (2022)
- Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival - Best Actor of the Year (2022)
Marital Status
Shortly after his passing, Grace Makun, wife of popular fashion designer Yomi Casual and a close friend of Alexx, shared an unexpected revelation about the late actor. While mourning, she revealed that he was married. In her emotional post, she said his parents, siblings, wife, gang, colleagues, fans and more would miss him. This sudden revelation elated fans as they recounted his past relationship crisis with ex-fiancee Fancy Achalaonu.
Last Appearance on a Movie Set
Legit.ng earlier reported that a video of Alexx Ekubo's last appearance on a movie set went viral, leaving many confused and in pain. While many were expecting a big comeback from the actor who had been away from the social scene for over two years, death came and snatched him away. In the clip, the actor was seen arriving at a movie set 30 minutes late, where he apologised to the cast and crew in a playful manner.
