The Nollywood film industry is once again plunged into mourning following the death of actor Big Larry. The news was broken by renowned movie producer Stanley Nwoke, also known as Stanley Ontop, who shared the tragic update on his Instagram page.

Nwoke’s post read: “Breaking News: Nollywood actor Big Larry just passed away. Je nke Oma big. What caused his demise is yet to be ascertained. May your soul rest in peace, Big Larry. Nollywood Asaba mourns. Shalom!!”

The cause of Big Larry’s death has not yet been disclosed, leaving fans and colleagues alike in a state of uncertainty and grief. The news has sent ripples of sadness across the Nollywood community, with many taking to social media to express their condolences.

Reactions Pour in: A Wave of Shock and Grief

Reactions from the entertainment world have been emotional and reflective of the shock felt by many:

• Destiny Etiko expressed her disbelief with a single word: “Jesus.”
• One Teoo wrote, “Ahhh this actor,” reflecting the collective sense of loss.
• Didi Ezenwa shared, “Beyond shattered,” capturing the deep emotional impact of the news.
• Real Charity Asuquo’s reaction was: “Jesus Christ. What!!”.
• The_micdibia simply stated, “RIP.”
• De_great_mirabel commented, “Chai.”
• Jennifer Ijeoma3 added, “Omoh this year wan carry everybody. May his soul rest in peace.”

A Shadow of Loss: Nollywood’s Recent String of Deaths

Big Larry’s death comes just a few weeks after the passing of another Nollywood actress, Sharon Okpamen, who died following childbirth. This recent string of deaths has cast a somber shadow over the industry, prompting reflection and concern among practitioners and fans alike.

Since January 2024, Nollywood has lost a number of practitioners, including Mr Ibu, Amaechi Muonagor, Junior Pope, Sisi Quadri, and Ganiyu ‘Ogunjimi‘ Oyeyemi. Others who lost their lives include Olofa Ina, Adejumoke Aderounmu, Saratu Gidado, Reginald Ebere, Ethel Ekpe and Onyeka Onwenu.

The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) recognized the alarming trend and, in May 2024, announced a four-day fasting and prayer session with Jerry Eze, the Streams of Joy International founder, to address the issue. Rollas, the AGN President, stated that “Actors cannot continue to die like chickens,” and that prayer was necessary to prevent further loss in the industry. He urged Nollywood actors and their supporters to join the program to “deal with this ugly reproach”. The prayer session was held at the M & M Center in Garki, Abuja from May 2 to 5.

A Loss for the Industry

Big Larry’s passing is a tragic loss for the Nollywood industry. He was a talented and well-loved actor who brought laughter and joy to audiences across the nation. His contributions to the film industry will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.

As the Nollywood community mourns the loss of another one of their own, the search for answers regarding Big Larry’s cause of death continues. The industry remains in a state of grief as they bid farewell to a cherished member of their creative family.