The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has declared Thursday as a ‘No Shoot Day’ for all Nollywood filmmakers, following the tragic death of actor Junior Pope and three other crew members in a boat accident on Anam River in Anambra State on Wednesday.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Emeka Rollas, the National President of the AGN, disclosed that the incident occurred on the set of the movie titled ‘The Other Side of Life’, which was produced by Adamma Luke.
“Following the tragic incident of a boat mishap that claimed the life of Junior Pope and three other crew members at waterside of River Niger Cable point Asaba on 10th of April, all films that involve riverine areas and boat riding is hereby suspended indefinitely.
“No Shoot on all locations nationwide on Thursday, 11th April 2024 and the film titled ‘The other side of Life’ is suspended indefinitely.“
“No actor is allowed to work with Adamma Luke as a producer till further notice, while we keep searching for the bodies of the remaining persons.
“May their souls rest in peace,” the statement said.
On Wednesday, the late actor and three of his colleagues were returning from a movie location in a boat when they tragically fell into Anam River in Anambra State.
Mr. Rollas initially declared Junior Pope’s survival on Wednesday, only to confirm his tragic passing on Thursday. Initially, there was hope as slight movements of Junior Pope’s fingers were observed. Taking to his Instagram page on Thursday, Mr. Rollas shared the heartbreaking news, lamenting, “It is so so sad that our joy was short-lived.” He explained that his first post was made in excitement upon noticing his tingling fingers. Despite efforts by two notable hospitals, Junior Pope could not be revived. Unfortunately, we have lost him. Mr. Friday’s body has been identified, but three others remain missing.
Junior Pope began his journey in the Nollywood industry in 2006, initially participating in movie auditions and taking on minor roles, frequently portraying characters like a bodyguard, palace attendant, and servant. Throughout his career, he featured in more than 150 Nollywood productions, including titles such as “Secret Adventures”, “Mad Sex”, “Bitter Generation”, “Vengeance of Bullet”, “The Cat”, “The Generals”, and “Wrong Initiation”, among others.
His talent was recognized in 2010 when he received the Nollywood Most Promising Actor in Nigeria award at the Entertainment Factory Awards. Renowned for his versatility, Junior Pope skillfully portrayed various roles, including those of criminals, villains, armed robbers, militants, and hitmen, often appearing alongside esteemed actors such as Emma Ehumadu, Sylvester Madu, Zubby Michael, Jim Iyke, Alaso Wariboko, Gentle Jack, Hanks Anuku, and Jerry Amilo.
His exceptional performances also garnered him awards such as Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice (AMVC) Awards and Best Actor of the Year at the Africa Movie Academy (AMA) Awards, among others.
