The Nigerian entertainment industry is in mourning following the passing of renowned Nollywood veteran, Tom Njemanze, who died at the age of 75 after a prolonged and courageous battle with prostate cancer.
According to reports reaching Naijapunchnews, the veteran actor breathed his last on Friday, having struggled with deteriorating health in recent months. His condition became public knowledge after filmmaker Stanley Ontop shared an emotional video on Instagram, disclosing that Njemanze had been diagnosed with prostate cancer and was in urgent need of financial assistance for surgery.
Despite efforts to raise support, the actor eventually succumbed to the illness, leaving fans and colleagues heartbroken.
A Career That Defined an Era
Tom Njemanze was a familiar face in Nollywood during the industry’s golden years, rising to prominence in the 1990s. His performances were marked by a commanding voice, intense emotional delivery, and an unmistakable charisma that made him a household name.
Over the decades, he featured in numerous hit films that have become timeless staples in Nigerian cinema. His notable works include Tokunboh, Pounds and Dollars, Atosa, Issakaba, Osuofia in London, Brain Box, and Igbotic Love, among many others. His roles spanned genres, from action to comedy, traditional epic to romantic drama, making him one of the most versatile actors of his generation.
Tributes and Reactions
Since the news of his death broke, heartfelt tributes have flooded social media and the entertainment scene. Colleagues, fans, and family members have taken to various platforms to express grief and celebrate his legacy. Many described him as humble, talented, and deeply committed to his craft.
Veteran actors and younger stars alike have paid their respects, with some calling for greater support structures for ageing actors in Nollywood, highlighting the health and financial struggles faced by many pioneers of the industry.
A Legacy That Lives On
Tom Njemanze’s passing marks the end of an era for countless fans who grew up watching his iconic performances. For many, he represents the face of early Nollywood a time when storytelling was raw, deeply cultural, and community-driven.
While he may be gone, his legacy lives on through the countless roles he brought to life and the memories he etched in the hearts of movie lovers across Nigeria and beyond.
May his soul rest in peace.
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