Nollywood actress Nancy Isime has joined the growing wave of tributes pouring in for late actor Alexx Ekubo after quietly changing her Instagram profile picture to his image.
The emotional gesture immediately caught the attention of fans online, with many describing it as one of the most touching tributes shared since news of the actor’s death broke earlier this week.
Rather than posting lengthy messages or public statements, Nancy chose a simple yet symbolic tribute: replacing her display photo with a dark image of Alexx Ekubo, reflecting the grief currently spreading across Nollywood and among his supporters.
The actor’s death has continued to shock many within the entertainment industry, especially given how private he kept his health struggles in recent months.
Reports confirmed earlier this week that Alexx Ekubo died at the age of 40 after battling cancer.
In an official statement released by his family on Wednesday, they disclosed that the actor passed away at Evercare Hospital following complications from advanced metastatic kidney cancer.
“After a brief but courageous battle, Alexx passed away at Evercare Hospital due to complications arising from advanced metastatic kidney cancer,” part of the statement read.
The revelation stunned fans even further because the actor had largely stayed away from public appearances and social media for several months before news of his illness became public.
Many followers had previously speculated about his sudden absence online, but few imagined he was privately fighting such a serious health condition.
Alexx Ekubo became a household name after emerging as the first runner-up at the 2010 Mr Nigeria competition, a breakthrough that opened doors into Nollywood.
Over the years, he built a strong reputation as one of the industry’s most recognisable leading men, starring in several successful productions, including Weekend Getaway, The Bling Lagosians, Omo Ghetto The Saga, and Afamefuna.
Beyond acting, many colleagues often described him as calm, stylish, supportive, and deeply respected within entertainment circles.
Since his death was confirmed, several Nollywood stars have continued to share emotional messages, old photos, and memories of moments spent with him, both on and off set.
Nancy Isime’s quiet tribute now joins those public displays of grief, serving as another reminder of the deep personal connections Alexx Ekubo built throughout his years in the industry.
For many fans, the actor’s death feels particularly painful because of how sudden and private the entire situation appeared.
Now, with tributes continuing to flood social media daily, Nollywood is once again being reminded how quickly one of its brightest stars can disappear, leaving behind memories, films, and an industry still struggling to process the loss.
