Nigerian actress and content creator Monalisa Stephen has died at 33 due to complications from low blood sugar and internal bleeding. She was known for her roles in Nollywood films and advocacy for body positivity.
It is with deep sadness that we report the passing of the vibrant and outspoken actress and content creator, Monalisa Stephen. News of her death broke on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, leaving fans and colleagues in the Nigerian entertainment industry in shock and mourning. She was 33 years old.
Monalisa Ayobami Stephen, fondly known as Monalisa or Gabacci, passed away on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, in Lagos. The cause of her death has been attributed to complications arising from low blood sugar and internal bleeding. This was confirmed by her immediate younger sister to the CEO of Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards, Seun Oloketuyi, who shared the sad news with the public via his Instagram page. In his heartfelt post, Oloketuyi described her as a “hardworking and beautiful soul.”
Monalisa Stephen carved a significant niche for herself in the Nigerian entertainment scene. While she featured in movies like “Mami Wata” (2023) and “Breaded Life” (2021), she garnered widespread recognition and a dedicated fanbase through her engaging content creation and her passionate advocacy for self-love and body positivity, particularly among plus-size women.
She was known for her fearless and candid opinions on body image, mental health, and self-love, often sparking important conversations online. Monalisa used her platforms as a model, content creator, and media personality to openly discuss her personal struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts, fostering a sense of connection and understanding with her audience.
In March 2023, she became a trending topic after a controversial revelation about her personal life, which drew both support and criticism. Despite the ensuing backlash, Monalisa remained steadfast in her advocacy, encouraging plus-size women to embrace their confidence and “live their truth.” Earlier this year, in an interview, she voiced her concerns about the discrimination faced by plus-size actresses in Nollywood, passionately calling for inclusivity and a shift in focus from appearance to talent.
Her last post on Instagram was on April 29, 2025, where she shared a video of herself dancing joyfully to Davido’s song “10 Kilo,” dedicating it to all the confident women she knew and loved. This final post serves as a poignant reminder of her vibrant spirit and her dedication to empowering others.
The news of Monalisa’s sudden demise has been met with an outpouring of grief from her fans and colleagues. Many have noted her recent silence on social media, which in retrospect, might have been an indication of her health struggles. Tributes are flooding online platforms, celebrating her boldness, her inspiring voice, and the positive impact she had on many lives.
Monalisa Stephen was more than just an actress and content creator; she was a beacon of confidence and a champion for self-acceptance. Her legacy will undoubtedly live on through her work and the countless lives she touched with her message of body positivity and mental health awareness. While an official statement from her family is still awaited, the entertainment industry and her numerous fans mourn the loss of a truly remarkable and influential woman.
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