Veteran actor Tom Njemanze has died after battling prostate cancer.
According to reports, the actor died on Friday. His deteriorating health came to public attention on July 1 when filmmaker Stanley Ontop shared a video of him on a hospital bed, appearing frail and hooked to IV fluids.
Earlier this month, entertainer Charly Boy had made a public appeal for financial support to assist with Njemanze’s medical treatment.
“Our Nollywood icon Tom Njemanze, the legendary actor you watched in Issakaba and Osuofia in London, is in a hospital bed fighting for his life. Prostate complications are draining him, and he needs urgent surgery that costs millions,” he said in a July 9 Instagram post.
“This isn’t just about Tom, it’s about the value we place on those who gave us joy, laughter, and unforgettable stories. I, Area Fada, and the CharlyBoy Foundation are calling on all well‑meaning Nigerians, fans, colleagues, and those who still believe in compassion, let’s rise for Tom. Let’s not wait for RIP hashtags. Let’s save him while we still can. Donate whatever you can. Nothing is too small.”
Despite the appeals, the actor sadly succumbed to the illness. Stanley Ontop announced the news of his death on Instagram on Saturday.
He wrote, “Good afternoon everyone, it’s another sad period as we just received news from Tom Njemanze family that he has succumbed to his ailment and passed on yesterday.
May his soul RIP 💔😭💔😭💔
It’s well.
We tried to save him Buh God knows the best.
Nollywood lose another legend 💔😭💔
Ije uwa.”
Tom Njemanze rose to fame in the 1990s and was known for his powerful performances in films such as Tokunboh, Pounds and Dollars, Atosa, Issakaba, Osuofia in London, Brain Box and Igbotic Love.
