Popular plus-size Nollywood actress and content creator Monalisa Stephen has reportedly died.
Chronicle NG gathered that she died in Lagos on Tuesday after battling low blood sugar and internal bleeding.
Monalisa’s demise was announced on Wednesday by the founder of Best of Nollywood, Seun Oloketuyi, on Instagram.
Sharing a photo of the late content creator, Oloketuyi wrote, “Brand influencer Monalisa Ayobami Stephen is she died yesterday in Lagos after losing the fight against low sugar and internal bleeding. Her immediate younger sister confirmed the death of this hard-working and beautiful soul.”
Monalisa, also known as Gabacci during her lifetime, featured in movies like Mami Wata (2023), Breaded Life (2021), and a myriad of comedy skits.
She rose to fame by using her platform to champion self-love and body positivity amongst plus-size women.
Monalisa was vociferous in her fight against the discrimination of plus-sized actresses in the Nigerian movie industry.
Earlier this year, in an interview with The PUNCH, she lamented over the alleged discrimination of plus-sized actresses in Nollywood.
“They’re biased against plus-size actresses, and it’s becoming worse for a generation with a fast mind,” she said.
“I don’t know who started the idea of putting one’s look over one’s talent. That is so ridiculous.
“They need to do better—all sizes should be included! Not even from a place where my forefathers and mothers were built like this. I can’t do anything about it; it’s in the genes,” she added.