Susan Abayomi
Veteran Nollywood actor, filmmaker and screenwriter Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, has left behind a remarkable legacy following his death at the age of 66.
Hassan, who died on Sunday, August 23, 2026, after battling stage-four cancer, was one of the most recognisable figures in Yoruba-language cinema. His passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, fans and prominent Nigerians.
As the Nigerian film industry mourns the veteran performer, here are some key facts about his life and career.
His full name was Taiwo Hassan
The actor was born Taiwo Hassan and became widely known by his popular stage name, Ogogo. He was born in Ilaro, Ogun State, and remained strongly connected to his hometown throughout his life.
He had a career spanning more than four decades
Ogogo began his acting journey in 1981, establishing himself within the Yoruba theatre and film tradition before becoming one of the industry’s prominent faces. His career eventually spanned more than 40 years.
He initially worked as an automobile mechanic
Before becoming a full-time actor, Hassan worked as an automobile mechanic. He later made the decision to devote himself entirely to acting, a move that would eventually lead to a long and successful career in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
He became a major figure in Yoruba cinema
Ogogo’s distinctive acting style and strong screen presence made him a familiar face among audiences of Yoruba-language films. Over the years, he featured in numerous productions and became regarded as one of the veterans who helped strengthen the Yoruba film industry.
He was also a filmmaker and screenwriter
Beyond acting, Hassan worked in other areas of filmmaking, including producing, directing and screenwriting. His involvement behind the scenes demonstrated his broader contribution to the development of Nigerian cinema.
Owo Blow was among his notable works
Ogogo appeared in the popular 1990s film Owo Blow, a production that featured several prominent actors of that era. His performances in Yoruba and English-language productions helped broaden his appeal among Nigerian movie audiences.
He featured in major contemporary productions
The veteran actor remained active across different generations of Nollywood. Among his later credits was the acclaimed film Aníkúlápó, in which he played the Alaafin Ademuyiwa. He also appeared in the subsequent Aníkúlápó: Rise of the Spectre.
His career earned industry recognition
Ogogo’s contribution to Nigerian cinema earned him recognition within the industry. He was nominated for Best Supporting Actor at the 2023 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards for his performance in Aníkúlápó.
His final days drew widespread concern
News of Ogogo’s health condition became public shortly before his death, with reports indicating that he had been battling stage-four cancer. His family and colleagues had sought support as efforts were made to secure further medical care.
He eventually died on August 23, 2026, at the age of 66. His daughter, Kira Taiwo, confirmed his death, while fellow actor Jide Kosoko also announced the development.
He leaves behind a lasting legacy
Ogogo’s death represents a significant loss to Yoruba cinema and the wider Nigerian creative industry. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was among those who mourned the actor, describing his passing as a loss to Nollywood and Nigeria’s creative community.
With a career stretching across more than four decades, Taiwo Hassan leaves behind an extensive body of work and a legacy that spans generations of Nigerian film audiences.
His journey from automobile mechanic to one of Yoruba cinema’s recognised veterans stands as a notable chapter in the history of Nollywood. As tributes continue to pour in, Ogogo will be remembered for his contribution to Nigerian storytelling and for helping preserve and popularise Yoruba-language cinema.
