The year 2025 brought profound sorrow to Nigeria's vibrant entertainment industry, as it bid farewell to a heartbreaking number of its beloved stars. From veteran actors who shaped Nollywood's foundation to promising young talents whose lights were dimmed too soon, the industry faced multiple periods of mourning. This review honours the memories of those who passed away, leaving behind legacies on screen and stage.
A Wave of Loss: Veteran Icons and Rising Stars
The industry was first struck in February 2025 with the passing of actor and lecturer Columbus Irosanga. Renowned for his powerful role as Chief Priest 'Igbudu' in the 2001 blockbuster Isakaba, Irosanga was also a respected lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt.
In March, actress Nkechi Nweje died after battling an undisclosed illness. Her death was announced by movie producer Stanley Ontop, sending shockwaves through her circles.
Tragedy continued in May when plus-sized model and body-positive advocate Monalisa Stephen (born Monalisa Abayomi) passed away. She died after a battle with low blood sugar and internal bleeding, silencing a powerful voice against body-shaming.
The month of June saw the Nollywood community grieving again as the family announced the death of actor Kayode Peters. Best known for his role as Koko in the popular sitcom Flatmate, Peters had been fighting a prolonged illness, the details of which his family kept private.
Summer of Sorrow: From Illness to Sudden Tragedy
July 2025 proved to be a particularly cruel month. Veteran actor Tom Njemanze lost his prolonged battle with prostate cancer. His condition had been shared publicly, with appeals for support, but he ultimately succumbed to the disease.
Also in July, the industry lost popular TikToker Vivian Chinelo, known online as Bigbutfit. Initial reports suggested a cosmetic procedure led to her death, but it was later clarified she had been battling a hernia.
The same month claimed the life of rising actress Omotola Odunsi, known for roles in films like Lisabi, the Uprising. Her sudden death from an undisclosed cause left colleagues stunned.
Nollywood director and marketer Chijioke Ike also died in July, slumping suddenly during a family meeting.
August deepened the losses. The legendary Fibian Adibe, aged 85, joined his ancestors. A member of the historic Odunke Artists group, Adibe was iconic for his role in the film adaptation of Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart.
Veteran Yoruba movie actor Chief Segun Remi, widely known as Chief Karan, also passed away. His death came years after a public appeal for help when he lost his home and office to a fire.
Another August loss was actor Odunayo Olufemi Oloto (Oloto). His protégé, Regina Chukwu, announced his passing, noting he slumped and died while at the hospital receiving treatment.
Unexpected Departures and Calls for Reflection
The year also saw tragic, unexpected deaths. Budding actress Pat Ugwu, 35, passed away in 2025, her burial following shortly after the announcement by colleague Emeka Okoye.
In a particularly sudden case, vibrant actor Odira Nwobu died while on a trip to South Africa with friends. After a night out, he went to sleep, his breathing changed, and he never woke up. Reports indicated a pre-existing struggle with high blood pressure.
The passing of these twelve individuals underscores the fragility of life and the collective heart of the entertainment community. Their deaths from illnesses like cancer, complications from hypertension, and sudden tragedies have sparked conversations about health awareness and support systems within the industry. Tributes poured in from every corner, highlighting the impact each had on colleagues, fans, and the cultural fabric of Nigeria. As the curtain fell on 2025, the industry was left to reflect on these immense losses while celebrating the indelible marks left behind by its departed stars.
