Veteran Nollywood actor Tom Njemanze has died at the age of 75, following a prolonged battle with prostate cancer that left the entertainment industry rallying for his survival. He passed away on Friday, July 19, 2025, sending shockwaves through Nigeria’s film community and reigniting conversations around the welfare of aging actors in the country.
Njemanze, a household name in the golden era of Nollywood, carved a niche for himself with unforgettable roles in blockbuster movies such as Issakaba, Tokunboh, Pounds and Dollars, Osuofia in London, Atosa, Brain Box, and Igbotic Love. His rich Igbo accent, expressive acting style, and commanding presence made him a fan favorite throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. His legacy continues to resonate with audiences across generations.
Before his death, the beloved actor’s health struggles had become public when fellow filmmaker Stanley Ontop shared a heart-wrenching video on Instagram in late June 2025, revealing Njemanze’s prostate cancer diagnosis and his urgent need for financial assistance to undergo surgery. The video sparked a wave of sympathy across social media, with fans and colleagues expressing concern and offering prayers and support.
Despite the overwhelming goodwill, Njemanze’s health deteriorated rapidly. Sources close to the family revealed he was receiving palliative care at the time of his passing. His death once again brings to light the dire need for a structured health support system for aging actors and entertainers in Nigeria, many of whom face neglect and financial difficulty despite their contributions to the industry.
Tributes have poured in from all corners of the entertainment world. Actors, producers, directors, and fans have taken to social media to mourn the loss, remembering him as one of Nollywood’s finest storytellers. Nollywood icon Pete Edochie described him as “a giant whose depth on screen reminded us of our roots,” while actress Patience Ozokwor called him “a pillar in the foundation of our industry.”
Born in 1950, Tom Njemanze began his acting career on the stage before transitioning to television and film. He was among the first generation of actors who laid the foundation for Nollywood’s explosion into one of the world’s largest film industries. His performances, often rooted in cultural authenticity, helped bridge traditional values with modern storytelling.
As the entertainment world mourns, plans are already underway for a befitting burial in his hometown in Imo State. Family sources say the funeral details will be made public in the coming days. For many fans, Njemanze’s death marks the end of an era—one that built Nollywood from the ground up, one iconic performance at a time.
