Veteran Actor Taiwo Hassan Reportedly Dies At 66

Veteran Nollywood actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, has reportedly died following a battle with stage-four cancer.

Reports said the 66-year-old Yoruba actor died on Sunday after his health worsened in recent weeks. His reported death came only days after his family and management revealed the seriousness of his condition and appealed for urgent medical assistance.

In a video shared online, Ogogo’s daughter, Kira Taiwo, was seen crying as she struggled to process the reported development. “I need to call my sisters. I need to call my family,” she said during an Instagram Live session.

The reported death was also announced by Sebilu Nnajat TV, a platform linked to Islamic cleric Sheikh Al-Fulanny. The platform wrote, “Innalillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. At last, Ogogo is gone. May Allah grant him Jannatul Firdaus.”

The news follows weeks of public concern over Taiwo Hassan’s health, after his family disclosed that he was battling stage-four cancer. His relatives said they needed access to suitable medical care rather than financial donations.

More than 500 people reportedly offered help, creating difficulties over how to determine the most suitable treatment option and safely move the actor from his hospital.

Veteran actor Jide Kosoko had earlier appealed for continued prayers, saying, “Please, continue to pray with us. We believe strongly that, with your prayers, our prayers, and the mercy of Almighty God, Taye will come out of this situation successfully. There is nothing impossible before Almighty God,” he said.

Taiwo Hassan built a decades-long career as an actor, filmmaker and director, earning widespread recognition through Yoruba-language productions, including Owo Blow. His distinctive performances made him a respected figure in the Nigerian film industry.

What impact do you think Taiwo Hassan’s career has had on Yoruba-language cinema?