In the aftermath of the tragic demise of actor Junior Pope, the world grieves the loss of a prolific talent whose memorable performances illuminated screens.
Yet, beyond his captivating on-screen persona, Junior Pope’s life was adorned with notable accomplishments that often escaped public recognition.
The Nollywood luminary passed away on April 10, 2024. His life was claimed in a heartbreaking incident as he drowned alongside three others while filming a movie in Asaba, the capital of Delta State, during a boat excursion.
Who was Junior Pope?
1. He was married with three young kids
In 2014, he got married to Jennifer Awele Okpuno. He had three sons with his wife.
Their youngest son is three years old.
His wife runs an events and décor company in Nigeria.
2. He was born in Cameroun
The actor was born on May 7, 1984, in Bamenda, Cameroon.
He completed his primary and secondary school education in Cameroun before relocating to Nigeria.
3. He holds a degree in Accountancy
Upon arriving in Nigeria, he attended the University of Nigeria Nsukka, situated in Enugu State.
He graduated with a degree in Accountancy.
4. He shot his first movie in 2006
Junior Pope started his career in acting and made his debut in Nollywood in 2006.
He rose to fame in 2007 after starring in a popular blockbuster movie titled ‘Secret Adventures’.
Junior Pope has since acted in over 100 movies, including Secret Adventures, Mad Sex, Bitter Generation, Vengeance of Bullet, and many others.
5. He was acknowledged by the industry in 2010
In 2010, the late Junior Pope won an award for Nollywood’s ‘Most Promising Actor’ at the Nigeria Entertainment Factory Awards.
6. He recently purchased a mansion
In December 2023, Junior Pope announced with excitement that he had finally purchased a home.
He took to Instagram to share pictures of the plush mansion amid the outpour of congratulations from his colleagues.
7. Known for playing hitman or ‘warrior’ roles
The late actor, although versatile, was well known for taking up roles of a ‘villain’ and warrior.
The late Junior Pope was usually seen with the likes of Emma Ehumadu, Sylvester Madu, Zubby Michael, Jim Iyke, Alaso Wariboko, Gentle Jack, Hanks Anuku, and Jerry Amilo, among others, who also portrayed similar characters in movies.