Nollywood Mourns: Celebrated Filmmaker Kayode Peters Passes Away at 49
The Nigerian entertainment industry has been plunged into mourning following the death of beloved filmmaker and producer Kayode Peters, who passed away in the early hours of Saturday, June 28, 2025, in Toronto, Canada, after battling a prolonged illness. He was 49.
Known for his vibrant creativity, comedic genius, and nurturing of young talent, Kayode Peters was a towering figure in Nollywood’s evolution—especially in the comedy and TV sitcom space. His family confirmed his passing in an official statement shared via Instagram, describing him as a “beloved son, husband, father, and mentor who passed on peacefully.” Tributes have since poured in from fans, colleagues, and industry giants, highlighting his incredible contributions to the growth of Nigerian cinema.
A Legacy Built on Laughter and Legacy
Born on September 25, 1975, in Ibadan, Peters began his journey into the creative world as a student at the University of Lagos, where he studied English and was deeply involved in campus theatre, particularly with Theatre 15, a vibrant drama troupe. He later advanced his education abroad, bagging a Master’s degree in Film and Television Production from the University of Greenwich in the UK, followed by further studies in Canada.
From stage plays to sitcoms, and from made-for-TV series to feature films, Kayode Peters had a hand in shaping the childhood and youthful memories of many Nigerians. He directed and produced popular series like Flatmates, Extended Family, Twilight Zone, and worked on earlier iterations of Papa Ajasco—all of which earned him praise for blending humor with relatable Nigerian experiences.
Films and TV That Defined His Career
One of Peters’ standout projects in recent years was the 2019 movie 13 Letters, a contemporary romantic drama that sparked conversations around love and betrayal in the digital age. He followed up with Crazy Grannies in 2021, a box office comedy that brought a new angle to aging and youth culture. His more recent works include Man of God, Something Like Gold, and Beautiful Us, which showcased his growing interest in fusing comedy with deeper themes of faith, identity, and mental health.
Through his production company, Peters actively mentored up-and-coming filmmakers, actors, and writers, offering training opportunities and platforms for them to shine.
Industry Tributes
News of his death triggered an outpouring of emotions across social media. Veteran comedian and actor Yaw (Steve Onu), actress Bimbo Ademoye, and filmmaker Biodun Stephen were among those who paid tribute, describing Peters as a “visionary,” “creative father,” and “relentlessly supportive.”
“He was the kind of person who saw potential even when you couldn’t see it in yourself,” one former crew member wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “He changed lives by simply believing in people.”
A Creative Giant Gone Too Soon
Though he was battling illness in the final months of his life, those close to Kayode say he remained passionate about storytelling and was actively working on new projects at the time of his passing. His last days, according to his family, were marked by peace, laughter, and a deep sense of fulfilment.
Kayode Peters is survived by his wife and children, whose privacy the family has requested during this difficult time. Funeral arrangements will be announced soon.
As Nollywood mourns, it also celebrates a man whose work will live on in the laughter, tears, and memories he gifted to millions. Rest well, KP. You came, you saw, you made us laugh—and we will never forget.
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