Social media influencer and plus-size model Monalisa Stephen is dead. The upcoming actress sadly passed away after a battle with low blood sugar and subsequent internal bleeding.
The tragic news was announced by the Chief Executive Officer of Best of Nollywood (BON), Seun Oloketuyi. He confirmed the sad news on May 14, 2025, via an Instagram post.
Oloketuyi stated that the news of her passing was confirmed by the deceased actress’ sister.
He wrote:
“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.”
ALSO READ: Nollywood Actress Nkechi Nweje Is Dead
Meanwhile, Monalisa Stephen, also known as Gabacci during her lifetime, featured in movies like Mami Wata (2023), Breaded Life (2021), and a myriad of comedy skits. She rose to prominence by using her platform to champion self-love and body positivity amongst plus-size women.
The deceased also spoke against discrimination against plus-size actresses in Nollywood.. In an interview with The PUNCH, she said:
READ MORE: Actress Opeyemi Aiyeola Drags Eniola Badmus For Allegedly Body Shaming Her
“They’re biased against plus-size actresses, and it’s becoming worse for a generation with a fast mind. I don’t know who started the idea of putting one’s look over one’s talent. That is so ridiculous. They need to do better—all sizes should be included! Not even from a place where my forefathers and mothers were built like this. I can’t do anything about it; it’s in the genes.”
In March, we reported the passing of famous Nollywood actress Nkechi Nweje. She died after a brief illness. The actress reportedly died on Friday, March 21st.
ALSO READ: Five Things You Should Know About Late Monalisa Stephen
Movie producer Stanley Ajemba, aka Stanley Ontop, confirmed her death on Saturday, March 22nd.
Alongside her picture, he wrote on Instagram:
“Nollywood in tears as we lost one of our vibrant Nollywood actresses, @nkechi.nweje, after a brief illness.
Couldn’t post since morning because it was like a dream to me. Ezigbo Nwanyi Onitsha.
Rest in peace, ma’am. My best friend, she always called me on the phone, advising me. The last time we spoke was during the Queenth saga. She said, ‘Ontop, stop.’ I’m still speechless.”
Her husband and six children survive her.
