Veteran Yoruba actor and filmmaker, Taiwo Adeshina, popularly known as Elegbeje Ado, has died after a brief illness at t he age of 66.
Gatekeepers News reports that according to reports, the Nollywood veteran passed away on Monday, June 29, 2026. His death was announced by actor Kunle Afod, who paid tribute to the late screen icon and described him as one of the legends of the Yoruba movie industry.
Elegbeje Ado was widely respected for his portrayal of traditional rulers, herbalists and cultural figures in Yoruba films. He became famous after starring in the 1991 movie Elegbeje Ado, a role that later became his popular nickname. He also featured in notable productions such as Ageku Abela and Oko Abiku.
Known for his emotional performances, the actor earned a reputation as one of the most recognizable faces in indigenous Yoruba cinema. Beyond acting, he was also a Christian pastor and reportedly stepped away from full-time filmmaking in 2016 to focus on ministry before briefly returning in 2025 to produce Christian movies.
Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues, fans and members of the entertainment industry, who have praised his contributions to the growth of Yoruba-language filmmaking and the legacy he leaves behind.
