GISTSMATE MEDIA reports that Patrick Okoye, the Nigerian actor and lecturer, has passed away.
The news was confirmed in a recent post on his Instagram account, which featured his photo and the caption: “Rest in peace, legend”.
Fondly called ‘Energy’ by his fans, the late actor was a professor in the department of Theatre Arts and Film Studies at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Awka, Anambra state. He was famous for playing traditional roles.
Fellow Nollywood star Ken Erics, while confirming the news, described the loss as “devastating”.
In an emotional tribute, Erics revealed that he had spoken with Okoye just a day before his death.
“This one hits hard because we spoke barely 24 hours before your demise, and you were hale and hearty,” he wrote.
“Getting a call from your number 24 hours after this devastation was the least expected. I don’t know where to begin. Indeed, the creative world has lost a gem!”
Erics went on to credit Okoye as a major influence on his career. He also highlighted Okoye’s role as a mentor beyond the classroom.
“This man right here encouraged my talent and helped me pursue my dreams by making sure I enrolled in Theatre Arts. He, alongside other great minds, was my acting and dance teacher in my university days as a Theatre Arts student at UNIZIK,” he added.
“This man nurtured raw talents and made stars, many of whom are doing well in the entertainment space.
“I remember, as a student, joining him in his car to attend movie auditions outside school sessions. His encouragement and guidance were palpable. Patosky!!
”As all fondly called him, the theatre community was the lifeline of rehearsals and stage performances as a newbie in improvisation classes. A very energetic and skilled dancer! An exceptional actor!
“And a great singer whose songs (some of which he introduced to our class for play productions) inspired me to do movie soundtracks. He was one of the first to take me to a recording studio to do backup vocals for his songs.
“Thank you, sir, for the nurture. I’m glad we got to do so many projects together professionally. A total artiste to the core! Death had dealt us a heavy blow. Rest with the Angels, Uncle Pat!
“May all your loved ones all over the world be comforted. Good night, Energy! Good night, Patosky! Good night, the Shimmer Master!! Rest well as you journey through the chthonic realm.”
Okoye rose to prominence with roles in popular movies such as ‘Onye Ozil,’ ‘The Duplex,’ and ‘Midnight Love’. His extensive filmography also includes ‘Old School,’ ‘Finding a Wife,’ The Lion,’ ‘The Jagaban,’ and ‘Over My Dead Body’.
WARNING: If You Are Not 18+, Don’t Click The Link Below 👇🫣
Did you want to monetize your website, join MONETAG or ADSKEEPER and start earning
Please don’t forget to “Allow the notification” so you will be the first to get our gist when we publish it.
Drop your comment in the section below, and don’t forget to share the post.
Never Miss A Single News Or Gist, Kindly Join Us On WhatsApp Channel:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vad8g81Eawdsio6INn3B
Telegram Channel:
https://t.me/gistsmateNG
