Nollywood has been hit with a devastating loss as beloved actor Jnr Pope Odonwodo tragically passed away on Tuesday. The 39-year-old star, known for his roles in popular films such as “Secret Adventures” and “Mad Sex”, was one of five actors who drowned after their boat capsized in the Anam River while returning from a movie shoot.
The news of Pope’s death was first shared by filmmaker Sam Olatunji on Instagram, with the Delta State Chairperson of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Emma Onyemeziem, confirming the tragic incident to Vanguard. The actor’s body has been deposited in the morgue as his colleagues and fans mourn the loss of a talented performer.
In a heartbreaking social media post, Pope had shared a video of himself and his fellow actors on the boat, expressing his concerns about the lack of life jackets during their journey. The father of three, who had narrowly escaped death in a house fire in 2021, emphasized the risks that entertainers often take to bring joy to their audiences.
Pope’s career in Nollywood began in 2006, where he started as a minor character in various films before gaining recognition for his role in “Secret Adventures”. Over the years, he appeared in over 150 movies, showcasing his versatility as an actor in projects like “Bitter Generation” and “Vengeance of Bullet”.
As the entertainment industry mourns the loss of a talented performer, Pope Odonwodo’s legacy will live on through his memorable performances and dedication to his craft. May he rest in peace.
