Another Nollywood actor dies

Nollywood actor dies

The Nigerian film industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran Nollywood actor and university lecturer, Patrick Okoye, popularly known as Energy.

News of his death became public on Friday after a message was shared on his Instagram page.

The post carried his photograph alongside a brief tribute describing him as a legend.

The late actor was also an academic who taught in the Department of Theatre Arts and Film Studies at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, where he contributed to the training of many students in the creative arts.

His death was later confirmed by fellow Nollywood actor Ken Erics, who expressed grief over the development on his Instagram page.

Erics revealed that he had spoken with Okoye shortly before his death and was shocked by the news. He described the late actor as someone who played a major role in guiding and encouraging young talents.

According to Erics, Okoye was more than an actor. He was a mentor who helped many aspiring entertainers discover and develop their abilities. He recalled how the late actor encouraged him to study Theatre Arts and supported him during his early days in the profession.

The actor said Okoye regularly offered advice, listened to younger colleagues and helped them find opportunities within the entertainment industry. He added that many successful figures in Nollywood benefited from the guidance and support he provided throughout his career.

Erics also remembered accompanying him to movie auditions during his student years, describing him as a committed teacher who dedicated his time to helping young performers improve their craft. He said Okoye was deeply involved in theatre productions and was respected for his work both on stage and on screen.

Beyond acting, the late entertainer was known as a talented dancer, singer and choreographer.

His influence extended into music, where he inspired several younger creatives and introduced many students to practical aspects of performance and production.

Describing the loss as a painful one for the entertainment industry, Erics thanked the late actor for the role he played in shaping his career. He noted that they later worked together on professional projects and praised him for his dedication to the arts.

Patrick Okoye, who hailed from Anambra State, built a reputation for portraying traditional rulers, elders and community leaders in films. His performances earned him recognition among movie lovers across Nigeria.

Throughout his career, he appeared alongside respected Nollywood stars such as Patience Ozokwor, Osita Iheme, Chinedu Ikedieze, Rita Arum and Yul Edochie.

Some of the movies that brought him wider recognition include Midnight Love, Old School, Finding a Wife, The Lion, The Jagaban and Over My Dead Body.