By Ghazali Ibrahim
Nigerian actor and stage producer Kayode Peters has reportedly died in Canada, sparking shock and sadness across the Nollywood and entertainment communities.
His death, confirmed by comedian Steve Onu (also known as Yaw), was announced on Friday to the Peoples Gazette.
“Yes, he is dead,” Yaw stated, adding that he was still “trying to speak with his brother” for further details.
Peters gained fame for his work on stage productions like Extended Family and for being the creative force behind the hit comedy sitcom Flatmates, a cult favourite in the early 2000s.
He was widely respected as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s contemporary theatre and television scene.
Details surrounding the cause and circumstances of his death remain unclear.
Blogger Cutie Juls, cited by Gistlover, reported his passing in Canada today but noted “no official confirmation has been given by his family or colleagues, leaving fans in shock and awaiting clarity”.
Social media has been flooded with tributes from colleagues and fans.
On Facebook, a post reminisces: “This guy on the basketmouth’s show ‘Flatmate’ as ‘Koko’, Kayode Peters passed away today in Canada. Life is short. May his soul find rest.”
Peters’ Instagram profile, showcasing over 1,700 posts and 66,000 followers, describes him as “Creator / Executive producer My Flatmates — Award winning Director / Producer”.
As the entertainment community mourns, many await official word from his family about funeral arrangements and tributes. In the meantime, colleagues continue to honour his lasting legacy in Nigerian theatre and television.
