IT’S OVER: Actor Junior Pope confirmed dead, AGN reacts [DETAILS]

The National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Emeka Rollas, has confirmed the passing of Nollywood actor John Paul Odonwodo, widely known as Junior Pope.

The unfortunate incident occurred as the late actor and three of his colleagues were returning from a movie shoot by boat and fell into Anam River in Anambra on Wednesday.

Rollas took to his Instagram page on Thursday to share the heartbreaking news, expressing, “It is with profound sadness that our initial hope was dashed.”

“My initial post was filled with hope when we observed slight movement in his fingers. Despite the valiant efforts of two notable hospitals to resuscitate him, our efforts were in vain.

“God’s will prevails. We have lost him,” he lamented.

Junior Pope ventured into the Nollywood industry in 2006, initially participating in auditions and assuming minor roles in films. His portrayals typically included characters such as bodyguards, palace attendants, and servants.

His breakthrough came in 2007 with his role in the Nollywood hit “Secret Adventures,” directed by Tchidi Chikere. Over the years, he featured in over 150 Nollywood productions, including “Mad Sex,” “Bitter Generation,” “Vengeance of Bullet,” “The Cat,” “The Generals,” and “Wrong Initiation,” among others.

In 2010, he was honored with the Nollywood Most Promising Actor in Nigeria award at the Entertainment Factory Awards. Junior Pope became renowned for his portrayal of characters such as criminals, villains, armed robbers, militants, and hitmen, often appearing alongside notable actors like Emma Ehumadu, Sylvester Madu, Zubby Michael, Jim Iyke, Alaso Wariboko, Gentle Jack, Hanks Anuku, and Jerry Amilo.

His accolades include the Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards and the Best Actor of the Year at the Africa Movie Academy Awards, among others.