The Nigerian film industry is still shocked from the death of Nollywood actress, filmmaker, and producer Allwell Ademola, who passed away at the age of 49 on December 27, 2025.
A woman of rare depth and versatility, Allwell Ademola lived a life rooted in culture, creativity, and excellence. Beyond the screen, she carried a prestigious family legacy and built a career that spanned decades across acting, music, writing, directing, and fashion.
Here are seven key things you should know about the late Allwell Ademola.
- She Came From Royal and Legal Lineage
Allwell Ademola hailed from a distinguished family in Abeokuta, Ogun State. She was the granddaughter of Sir Adetokunbo Ademola, Nigeria’s first indigenous Chief Justice and a prince of the Alake of Egbaland.
Her great-grandfather was Oba Sir Ladapo Ademola II, a former Alake of Egbaland, placing her firmly within one of Abeokuta’s most historically significant royal families.
- She Was a Child Star on Tales by Moonlight
Allwell’s journey into entertainment began remarkably early. At just three years old, she was scouted in 1985 by veteran broadcaster Uncle Wole for NTA’s Animal Games.
She later became a familiar face on the iconic children’s television show Tales by Moonlight, earning nationwide recognition long before adulthood.
- She Was a Professional Musician and Bandleader
Beyond acting, Allwell was deeply passionate about music. She led a 12-man band called Allwell and Company, which she formed in 2002 and officially inaugurated in 2010.
She released her debut studio album in 2006 and was known for her soulful vocals, worship sessions, and live performances that reflected her spiritual depth.
- She Was Nollywood’s Quiet Script Writer
While many knew her as an actress, Allwell Ademola was a powerful force behind the scenes. After writing a successful script for filmmaker Sode Balogun in 2009, she became highly sought after as a scriptwriter.
She later transitioned into directing in 2016, working for over seven years as a director and script consultant, often “doctoring” scripts to ensure their commercial and creative success.
- She Thrived in Both Yoruba and English Nollywood
Allwell was one of the few filmmakers who successfully bridged the gap between Yoruba-language and English-language Nollywood.
She produced, directed, and featured in over 20 films, including False Flag (2016) and Kila (2019), maintaining relevance across different audiences and sectors of the industry.
- She Built a Fashion Brand for Plus-Sized Women
A strong advocate for body confidence, Allwell ventured into fashion, creating a clothing line tailored for plus-sized women.
Driven by her personal experiences as a “big, bold, and beautiful” woman, she designed many of her own outfits, turning her creativity into a business that empowered others.
- She Was an Award-Winning Creative
Allwell Ademola’s talent earned her multiple accolades over the years. Notably, she won Best New Actress at the Reel Awards in 2003 and Best Movie Producer of the Year (Yoruba) in 2018.
Despite decades in the spotlight, she consciously avoided scandals, often stating that her grandfather’s legacy influenced her strong sense of discipline, professionalism, and character.
Allwell Ademola’s passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy rooted in royalty, creativity, and quiet excellence will continue to live on through her work and the lives she inspired.