Nollywood has been thrown into mourning following the death of actress and popular body positivity advocate, Monalisa Stephen.
The Nollywood actress reportedly passed away on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, in Lagos after battling complications arising from low blood sugar and internal bleeding.
The tragic news was confirmed by a close family member and made public on Wednesday morning by Seun Oloketuyi, Chief Executive Officer of Best of Nollywood (BON), through a heartfelt post on Instagram.
“Brand influencer Monalisa Ayobami Stephen is dead. She died yesterday in Lagos after losing the fight against low sugar and internal bleeding. Her immediate younger sister confirmed the death of this hardworking and beautiful soul,” Oloketuyi wrote.
Until her untimely death, Monalisa was widely recognized not just for her roles in Nollywood but for her outspoken stance on body image, mental health, and self-love. She built a devoted following by using her platform to challenge stereotypes and encourage confidence, particularly among plus-size women, often sparking thought-provoking discussions online.
Tributes have begun pouring in from fans, colleagues, and advocates who admired her courage, activism, and contribution to the entertainment industry.
Further details surrounding her death and burial arrangements are yet to be made public by her family.
