George Ogunde, Firstborn of Theatre Icon Hubert Ogunde, Passes Away
George Ogunde, the first child of the renowned theatre icon Hubert Ogunde, has passed away. His sister, Dayo Ogunde, shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook, expressing the family’s grief and solace in knowing that George is in a better place. She wrote, “It’s hard to say goodbye Brother mi, our first child in the Ogunde clan. But we take solace in the fact that you are in a better place. You were such a wonderful and friendly soul. May your soul continue to rest in the bosom of your maker. Goodnight George Ogunde. Omo Gbegande Esiwu Ijoku.”
Following in the footsteps of his legendary father, George Ogunde was also a dedicated theatre practitioner and led his own troupe. His contributions to the arts mirrored the profound impact his father had on Nigerian theatre. Hubert Ogunde, born in 1916 and passing in 1990, is celebrated as the father of Nigerian theatre. He was a distinguished actor, playwright, theatre manager, and musician, instrumental in the evolution of contemporary theatre in Nigeria.
The Ogunde family has faced previous losses, including Afolabi Ogunde-Kikiowo, another of Hubert Ogunde’s children, who died in September 2019. The legacy of Hubert Ogunde continues through his family’s ongoing contributions to the arts. George’s younger brother, Owobo Ogunde, notably portrayed the role of Bashorun in Kunle Afolayan’s film, Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre.
The passing of George Ogunde marks a significant moment for the Ogunde family and the broader Nigerian theatre community. His life’s work and dedication to theatre uphold the rich legacy left by his father, ensuring that the Ogunde name remains synonymous with excellence in the arts.
