Veteran filmmaker Lancelot Imasuen has opened up about his early encounters with late Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo, disclosing that he gave Ekubo his debut movie role after spotting his dedication as a young enthusiast. The two were neighbours in Surulere, Lagos, during Ekubo's student days, where Imasuen noticed the future star frequently visiting film sets every Saturday, quietly observing the filmmaking process without prompting. That consistent presence, driven by a clear passion for cinema, eventually led Imasuen to cast him in his first acting role. He described Ekubo as focused and naturally inclined toward the craft, a trait that laid the foundation for a notable career in the industry.
Ekubo's death was confirmed on Monday, May 11, 2026, after a private battle with kidney cancer. He was 40 years old. The news broke on Tuesday, triggering an emotional wave across social media platforms, especially Instagram and X, where fans and colleagues expressed grief using his beloved nickname, "Ikuku." Born Alexx Ekubo-Okwaraeke on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, he had not posted online since December 30, 2024, a silence that had sparked growing concern and speculation about his wellbeing in the months prior to his passing.
Imasuen called the loss "devastating and unbelievable," reflecting on how Ekubo's early curiosity evolved into a full-fledged presence in Nollywood. Tributes continue to pour in from across the entertainment community, underscoring the impact Ekubo made during his time on screen.
Lancelot Imasuen recalls spotting Alexx Ekubo's passion as a set regular before casting him, yet that same dedication was mirrored in fans who monitored his absence from social media for over a year. Ekubo stopped posting on December 30, 2024, and his death was only confirmed on May 11, 2026, leaving a gap of 16 months where silence spoke louder than updates. The delayed public confirmation contrasts sharply with the immediacy with which fans reacted, turning "Ikuku" into a viral symbol of loss. This timeline reveals how digital presence now shapes both fame and mourning in real time.
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