Nollywood Mourns Veteran Actor Taiwo Hassan ‘Ogogo’ at 66

Nigeria’s film industry is mourning the death of veteran Yoruba actor, filmmaker and screenwriter Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, who died on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at the age of 66.

Hassan’s death was confirmed by his daughter, Kira Taiwo, during an emotional social media broadcast. Overwhelmed by grief, Kira struggled to hold back tears as she announced that her father had passed away.

The development was also confirmed by veteran actor Jide Kosoko, who announced that Hassan died at about 3:00 p.m. on Sunday. Multiple Nigerian media outlets have since reported his death.

Ogogo’s final days came after a difficult and highly publicised battle with stage-four cancer.

Earlier in August, his daughters, Kira and Lima, appealed publicly for urgent medical assistance after doctors reportedly diagnosed their father with advanced cancer. The family said they initially believed he was dealing with an ulcer before further medical examinations revealed the seriousness of his condition.

According to the family, the illness had affected his abdomen and caused significant swelling and pain. They appealed particularly to cancer specialists, hospitals and medical professionals who might be able to offer additional treatment options.

The family stressed that their appeal was primarily for medical expertise and access to treatment, rather than financial donations.

There were also efforts to seek treatment outside Nigeria. However, the family said Ogogo had obtained an Indian visa but was later considered medically unfit to travel.

As news of his condition spread, several people offered possible treatment options. His daughter also warned against individuals attempting to exploit the family’s difficult situation by promoting expensive or unverified treatments.

Born on October 31, 1959, in Ilaro, Ogun State, Taiwo Hassan became one of the most recognisable faces of Yoruba-language cinema.

He began his career on stage before moving into film and television, eventually becoming a major figure during the growth of Nigeria’s home-video industry.

Ogogo was known for his commanding voice, strong screen presence and ability to portray powerful, culturally rooted characters. Over the years, he frequently played traditional rulers, chiefs, warriors, strict fathers and other authoritative figures.

His role in Owo Blow, directed by Tade Ogidan, helped increase his visibility and further established him as a major actor. His performance earned him the THEMA Best Actor award in 1997.

Beyond acting, Hassan also worked as a filmmaker and screenwriter, leaving his mark on an industry he had been part of for decades.

The news of Ogogo’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief from colleagues, fans and members of Nigeria’s entertainment community.

For many who grew up watching Yoruba films, Ogogo was more than an actor. His distinctive voice, commanding presence and memorable characters made him a familiar figure across generations.

His remains were taken to Ilaro, Ogun State, his hometown, with burial arrangements scheduled for Monday, August 24, in accordance with Islamic rites.

Ogogo leaves behind a legacy built on decades of storytelling, performance and service to Nigerian entertainment. May his soul rest in peace.