The Nigerian entertainment industry has been plunged into grief following the death of veteran Nollywood actor Taiwo Hassan, widely known as Ogogo, who passed away on Sunday after a battle with stage-four cancer.

His death was announced by members of his family on social media, sending shockwaves through the creative community, colleagues and millions of fans across the country.

The legendary actor’s death came only days after his daughters, Kira and Haleemah Taiwo, made emotional public appeals about his deteriorating health. The family revealed that the veteran actor had been battling stage-four cancer, a condition that severely affected his health and raised widespread concern across Nigeria. Despite efforts by his family, medical teams and well-wishers to explore advanced treatment options, the acclaimed actor succumbed to the illness.

ALSO READ: Who is Taiwo Hassan ‘Ogogo’, popular actor who died of stage-four cancer?

As news of his critical condition spread last week, members of the Nollywood community rallied around the ailing actor in a show of support.

On Friday, just days before his death, more than 100 actors, filmmakers and religious leaders gathered at the BOS Hall (Babajide Olushola Sanwo-Olu Hall) in Ikeja, Lagos, for a prayer session.

The gathering was led by industry veterans, including Yinka Quadri, Jide Kosoko, TAMPAN National President Bolaji “Mr Latin” Amusan, Antar Laniyan and Fausat Balogun, alongside actors such as Lateef Adedimeji and Toyosi Adesanya.

Islamic clerics led the congregation in prayers, seeking divine intervention, comfort for the family and strength for the veteran actor during his final hours. Colleagues also acknowledged the efforts of figures such as Senator Solomon Adeola, who had stepped in to help facilitate specialised medical treatment.

Born on October 31, 1959, in Ilaro, Ogun State, Taiwo Hassan carved out a remarkable career in Nigerian cinema. Before becoming a household name, he spent more than a decade working as an automobile mechanic before transitioning fully into acting in 1981. He left his civil service job in 1994 to focus on his acting career.

Over a career spanning more than four decades, Ogogo became one of the defining figures of Yoruba home videos and mainstream Nollywood. His performances in films such as Owo Blow, Atitebi, Elewon, Aníkúlápó and Bank Alert cemented his reputation as a versatile and respected actor.

Tributes have begun pouring in from across the country and beyond as fans, political leaders and professional bodies remember the actor and his contribution to Nigerian entertainment and culture.

He is expected to be buried according to Islamic rites.