SAD NEWS: BBC star ‘heartbroken’ as she makes devastating announcement
The actress was inundated with condolences across her social media platforms.
Chizzy Akudolu played Butterfly Brown in Death in Paradise in 2019 (Image: BBC)
Death in Paradise star Chizzy Akudolu has taken to social media to announce the tragic death of her father, Raphael Nwose Akudolu. In an emotional post, the BBC star remembered her dad as the “most unintentionally funny man,” and shared heartwarming photos from throughout the years. In the tribute, Chizzy penned: “On July 27th, 2026, after 2 weeks in hospital, my wonderful Father passed. I am heartbroken but grateful that his pain is now over. He was honestly the most unintentionally funny man and no one had a bad word to say about him.
The former Holby City actress added: “Losing a parent means losing a part of yourself, but his awesomeness lives on in all his children and grandchildren. To the staff at the Margaret Centre at Whipps Cross Hospital, thank you for looking after him. Raphael Nwose Akudolu, I love you. Thank you for being my Daddy.”
Chizzy was inundated with messages of support from fans and her famous pals, including Beverly Knight, who shared: “Oh my luv. I am so sorry and send you my heartfelt condolences. Here for you.”
EastEnders’ Diane Parrish added: “So sorry to hear of his passing, darling. Sending you love.” As Baroness Floella Benjamin commented: “Sending virtual hugs full of love and comfort, my darling.”
Presenter Dermot O’Leary simply shared a red heart emoji, while Lisa Snowdon commented: “I’m so sorry Chizzy – heartbroken for you all. Sending love and strength.”
Chizzy famously took part in Strictly Come Dancing in 2017 alongside pro Pasha Kovalev but finished in 15th place.
Chizzy starred on Strictly in 2017 (Image: BBC)
Chizzy’s devastating tribute followed a record-breaking career high after ITV confirmed her comedy panel show, Sorry I Didn’t Know, had been recommissioned for a seventh series and will make a comeback later this year.
This breaks the show’s own record for being the longest-running show from a Black-led production company.
As a result, Chizzy will return to screens as host in the absence of the previous host, Jimmy Akinbola, alongside team captains comedian Eddie Kadi and actor Richard Blackwood.
