10 Things to Know About Late Yoruba Actor Taiwo Hassan, Ogogo

By Opeyemi Adelakun

Veteran Nigerian actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, has died at the age of 66, marking the end of a decades-long career in Yoruba-language cinema.

His daughter, Kira, confirmed his death during an Instagram Live session on Sunday, August 23, 2026, following days of concern over the actor’s health.

Here are 10 things to know about the late entertainer:

1. His name was Taiwo Hassan

Taiwo Hassan was widely known by his stage name, Ogogo. He became a prominent figure in Yoruba-language films through his performances and contributions to the Nigerian film industry.

2. He was born in Ilaro, Ogun State

Hassan was born in Ilaro, Ogun State, on October 31, 1959, according to biographical records cited in the report.

3. He began acting in 1981

Ogogo began his acting career in 1981 while also working outside the entertainment industry. He eventually devoted himself fully to acting and filmmaking.

4. He worked as an automobile mechanic

Before establishing himself as a full-time entertainer, Hassan worked as an automobile mechanic and later with a water corporation.

His early working life was therefore far removed from the film industry in which he would eventually become a recognised figure.

5. He was involved in different aspects of filmmaking

Ogogo was not only an actor. He also worked as a producer, director and screenwriter, making contributions to different stages of film production.

6. He featured in several Nigerian films

Throughout his career, Ogogo appeared in several Nigerian films, including Omo Ghetto, Tenant of the House, Amerah, Bank Alert and Aníkúlápó.

7. He featured in Aníkúlápó

Ogogo played Alaafin Ademuyiwa in Kunle Afolayan’s 2022 epic film Aníkúlápó.

The film was released on Netflix and became one of the veteran actor’s notable appearances in his later years.

8. He was a veteran of Yoruba cinema

Ogogo remained closely associated with the Yoruba section of Nollywood throughout his career.

His decades of work made him one of the recognisable faces of Yoruba-language cinema, with his career spanning several generations of Nigerian filmmakers and audiences.

9. His family had disclosed his health battle

Before his death, members of Ogogo’s family, including his daughters Kira and Lima, publicly appealed for medical assistance after revealing that the actor was battling stage-four cancer.

The family had also denied a false report of his death on August 18, 2026.

10. His daughter announced his death

Reports of Ogogo’s death emerged on Sunday, August 23, 2026, with his daughter, Kira, confirming the development during an Instagram Live session.