Murphy Afolabi: Nigerian actor who has passed on to the great beyond

In the year 2023, the entertainment industry was struck by a devastating loss with the untimely passing of Murphy Afolabi, a talented and beloved actor. Known for his remarkable performances on screen and his endearing personality off-screen, Afolabi’s sudden departure sent shockwaves through the hearts of fans, colleagues, and the Nigerian film community at large.

This piece pays tribute to the life and legacy of Murphy Afolabi, celebrating his contributions to the Nigerian film industry while reflecting on the profound impact of his passing.

Murphy Afolabi biography

Murphy Afolabi was born on May 5, 1974, in Osun State. He hailed from a polygamous family in Oroki Asala, Osogbo, the state capital. His birth name was Olalekan Olatunbosun Afolabi, but he was popularly known by his stage name, Murphy Afolabi. He was the third child out of his father’s seven children and the eldest son of the Afolabi family.

Afolabi spent his early years in Osogbo. He attended Ansar-u-deen Islamic Boys Junior and Senior Secondary High School. Later, he pursued Theatre Arts and Film Production at Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, where he obtained his Higher National Diploma in 2001.

He worked in the Yoruba genre of Nollywood for more than 25 years and gained prominence due to his humorous portrayal of the Osun accent and H-factor. Afolabi became a popular meme character among many members of Generation Z on social media.

ALSO READ: Saint Obi: Legendary Nollywood figure who captivated movie buffs bites the dust

Murphy Afolabi career

Afolabi commenced his career in the film industry at a young age, working alongside the renowned movie producer, the late Duro Ladipo. However, it was under the guidance of the veteran actor Fasasi Olabankewin, popularly known as Dagunro, that Afolabi made his first appearance onscreen in 1998.

Afolabi gained fame for his numerous Yoruba movies. Many of his films belonged to the genre of epic Yoruba movies, which depicted the lives of ordinary street gang members in the communities of southwestern Nigeria.

In addition, Afolabi proved himself as a proficient scriptwriter, director and movie producer. He was the proprietor of Murphy Afolabi TV, a YouTube channel, and the owner of Fatuns Films Production. Afolabi also managed a real estate company called Schemelink.

Murphy Afolabi movies

Afolabi was featured in several movies during his lifetime. Some of his notable works include:

• “Idera”
• “Wasila Coded”
• “Omo Rapala”
• “Ifa Olokun”
• “Jimi Bendel”
• “Olokiki Oru”
• “Omowunmi”
• “Malaika Dudu”

Murphy Afolabi’s net worth

Afolabi’s net worth is estimated to be between N15 million to N25 million, as of the time of his demise.

Murphy Afolabi family

Afolabi was happily married. He and his wife were together for 20 years. However, he chose to keep his marital life private and as a result, there is limited information available about his wife and her true identity.

ALSO READ: Antar Laniyan: Iconic movie star still bossing on screen three decades later

According to reports, the late actor had three children, consisting of two sons and a daughter: Olamilekan, Moyosore and Fathia Afolabi.

Murphy Afolabi age

Afolabi was born on May 5, 1974. He died at the age of 49.

Before his demise, Murphy recently celebrated his 49th birthday on May 5, 2023. His colleagues in the industry took to social media to express their heartfelt congratulations and admiration for him on this special occasion.

Murphy Afolabi death

The news of Murphy Afolabi’s demise generated shockwaves across Nollywood and the South-West region of Nigeria, in particular.

According to reports, the actor had a tragic incident in his bathroom, resulting in a head injury that ultimately led to his demise. As news of his untimely death circulated online, numerous celebrities expressed their sadness and offered their condolences through social media.

ALSO READ: Muyiwa Ademola: The ‘authentic’ man dominating Yoruba-themed movies