The Nigerian film industry is grieving the death of popular Yoruba actress and producer, Temitope Osoba, who went away at age 40 after a brave fight with breast cancer.
Tope Osoba, also called Osoba, died on Tuesday night August 4, 2026, a little over a year after she happily announced her comeback to acting after her recovery from the disease.
Actor Alesh Ola Sanni, one of her close companion and colleague, confirmed the news in a sad message on Instagram, saying he was still in shock over the loss.
Sanni wrote, “It’s pretty well. Will not sleep since last night. Rest in peace my dearest sister Temitope Osoba. We had a great time together and pleasant memories till we meet again. I truly don’t know what to say mehn, gosh. Foluke Daramola-Salako and Oladipupo Okanlawon, other coworkers, also confirmed her departure on social media.
Osoba was born on 2 December 1985 in Abeokuta, Ogun State; she lost her parents at a tender age and was raised by her grandparents.
She started her acting career in 2005 when she accidentally entered the film industry after visiting the movie rehearsal area in Lagos and was picked on the spot for a dancing role in Laide Bakare’s movie “Ijoya”. She came into the limelight after featuring in famous films such as “Oogun Mi”, “Gucci Girls” and “Igboro Ti Daru”. She even created her own movie, “Single Ladies”.
Osoba revealed her battle with the disease publicly in late 2024, after finding a lump in her breast during a self-exam.
A first examination by a doctor found no connection to hormonal changes but additional examination revealed the lump was a malignant tumour.
She had her first surgery in November 2024 and later called for financial help for a second surgery that was projected to cost roughly N12 million, a call that had the solidarity of industry colleagues who launched public contribution drives.
During her treatment, Osoba said doctors told her the medication she had to take meant she wouldn’t be able to conceive for five years. She stated she dismissed the information and stuck to her beliefs, praying and fasting on the matter.
In August 2025, she revealed she had defeated cancer and was making a comeback to the profession, characterising her experience as a “turning point” that led to her “rebranding, reshaping and rebuilding”.
“I’m coming out of this stronger, more resilient and more passionate about sharing my story and inspiring others,” she said, vowing to utilise her platform to raise awareness about breast cancer.
Osoba was known for her role in several Yoruba films such as “Ile Owo,” “Omo Iya Kan” and “Twinny Mi,” and had built a reputation as a resilient and dedicated actress who inspired many with her courage.
Her colleagues said she was a kind-hearted, humble and sensitive woman whose kindness touched everyone around her.
Tributes have been pouring in from fans and industry people alike, praising her contributions to Nollywood and her inspiring battle against illness.
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