12 Things to Know About Late Nollywood Actress Temitope Kofoworola Osoba –
Nollywood Actress Temitope Kofoworola Osoba Dies at 40
Temitope Kofoworola Osoba, a prominent actress in the Yoruba Nollywood film industry, passed away on August 5, 2026, at the age of 40. Her death occurred just four months shy of her 41st birthday and sent shockwaves across Nigeria’s entertainment sector, prompting an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans.
Osoba’s journey was marked by resilience and determination. After a courageous battle with breast cancer, she made an emotional return to acting in 2025, inspiring many with her strength and commitment to raising awareness about women’s health issues.
Born on December 2, 1985, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Osoba grew up in southwestern Nigeria, where she developed a passion for entertainment. She belonged to the Osoba family, related to former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba, though she sought to establish her own identity within the industry.
Before fully embracing her acting career, Osoba studied Business Education at Olabisi Onabanjo University, using that background as a foundation for her dual roles as actress and producer. Her early career included work as a professional dancer and video vixen before she transitioned into acting around 2005.
Osoba became a well-known figure in Yoruba Nollywood, featuring in numerous films, including Gucci Girls (2012), Accident (2013), and Ifedolapo (2015). Her versatility allowed her to shine in various genres, from emotional dramas to comedies.
In late 2024, she discovered a lump during a routine self-examination, which led to her breast cancer diagnosis. Rather than keeping her illness private, she publicly shared her journey to encourage women to prioritize their health. After undergoing surgery in November 2024, she called for financial assistance to continue treatment, drawing significant support from fans, colleagues, and well-wishers across Nigeria.
Osoba’s battle with cancer concluded with a triumphant recovery, confirmed by medical reviews indicating the cancer had not spread. Following her return to acting in 2025, she aimed to use her experiences to motivate others facing similar health challenges.
Osoba became a vocal advocate for breast cancer awareness, emphasizing the significance of early detection and regular health examinations. Her openness contributed to reducing the stigma surrounding cancer discussions in the entertainment industry.
Her death, announced by fellow actor Alesh Sanni on social media, was met with widespread grief. Osoba is remembered not only for her on-screen performances but also for her legacy of resilience and hope. She leaves behind a powerful message about fighting adversity with dignity and the importance of inspiring others through personal experiences.
As Nollywood mourns her loss, Osoba’s story serves as a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many.
