Nollywood actor Chijioke Temidayo Nwokafor, popularly known as Cjay, has died, throwing colleagues, friends and fans into mourning.

Cjay’s death was announced on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, by actress Nkechi Blessing, who shared the news in an emotional social media post and video.

Nkechi Blessing revealed that she had spoken with Cjay around 8 a.m. on the day of his death, only to receive news of his passing a few hours later. She also cancelled the scheduled release of her movie, Egusi Ogbono, in which Cjay featured, following confirmation of his death at a hospital.

The cause of Cjay’s death had not been disclosed by his colleagues or family as of the time of filing this report. Funeral arrangements were also yet to be announced.

Cjay, who hailed from Awka, Anambra State, and was based in Lagos, began his professional acting career in 2021.

He featured in several Nollywood productions, including Larry Cold, Mum Overnight, A Day to My Wedding, The Lies She Tell and What Time Left.

The actor had also spoken about his journey into acting in a September 2026 interview with Trybe TV, recalling how his early experience on a film set with filmmaker Ruth Kadiri inspired him to pursue acting professionally.

Following the announcement of his death, fellow actors and fans expressed shock and grief over the sudden loss.

The Nigerian film industry has continued to mourn Cjay, with tributes pouring in from colleagues who described the actor’s death as unexpected and painful.