One year after the untimely passing of Nollywood actor Junior Pope, tributes have continued to pour in from family, friends, and colleagues across the entertainment industry.
The actor died in a tragic boat mishap on his way to a movie set in Asaba, Delta State. Marking the first anniversary of his death, his widow, Jennifer, took to Instagram to share an emotional tribute, reflecting on the pain of his absence and the lasting impact of his memory on their family.
“It’s been one year of standing in the face of our unimaginable loss, and not a day has gone by without a thought of you,” she wrote. “Your love still surrounds us, your laughter echoes in our hearts, and your presence is felt in the quiet moments when we miss you most.”
Jennifer also spoke about the emotional challenges of raising their children without him, revealing that their sons Jason and Jaden still hope for their father’s promise to take them to a football academy, while the youngest, Jamon, keeps asking about the toy car he was promised.
She extended her gratitude to those who have continued to support the family during their time of grief, saying, “To our beloved, you did not only leave your family but also so many people who loved you and your work.”
Fellow actors and colleagues also joined in remembering Junior Pope. Dave Ogbeni shared a video collage of their moments together, writing about the emotional weight certain songs, movies, and places now carry due to memories of the late actor.
Actress Sonia Ogala referred to him as “The King of Swag,” saying his impact and legacy still live on. Destiny Etiko echoed the sentiment, saying, “We are all pained, but you will continue to have a place in our hearts.”
Other celebrities who paid tribute on social media included Ekene Umenwa, May Edochie, and Adanma Luke, all of whom remembered Junior Pope’s vibrant personality and lasting contributions to Nollywood.