The Nollywood community and fans worldwide are heartbroken, grappling with the devastating loss of Monalisa Ayobami Stephen, the vibrant actress and body positivity icon known as Gabacci. At just 33, Monalisa slipped away on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, in Lagos, succumbing to health complications from low blood sugar and internal bleeding. Her younger sister’s trembling voice and Seun Oloketuyi’s somber Instagram post confirmed the unbearable truth: a radiant star has dimmed too soon.
Monalisa was more than an actress; she was a beacon of courage, lighting up screens in Mami Wata (2023) and Breaded Life (2021) with her infectious energy. Her 305,000 Instagram followers cherished her comedy skits and fearless advocacy for self-love, mental health, and body positivity. From Rivers State, she boldly embraced her plus-size figure, declaring, “I love being fat,” even as trolls hurled cruelty her way. Her heart, however, remained open, inspiring countless women to love themselves fiercely.
As a fashion designer, Monalisa crafted empowering designs for plus-size women, defying Nigeria’s rigid beauty standards. Her 2023 Best Actress win for FatBulous at the Saskatchewan International Film Festival felt like a triumph for every underdog she championed. Yet, behind her radiant smile, Monalisa battled diabetes and the weight of public scrutiny. In 2022, she bravely shared her struggle with depression, admitting she once contemplated suicide after relentless body-shaming. Her honesty saved lives, giving voice to the silenced.
Seun Oloketuyi’s words cut deep: “Brand influencer Monalisa Ayobami Stephen is dead… a hardworking and beautiful soul.” Toyin Abraham and countless fans flooded social media with tributes, their tears echoing a collective grief. Whispers of extreme dieting or herbal slimming products swirl, but no confirmed cause taints her memory. What remains is her truth: a woman who fought for joy, even when her body faltered.
Monalisa’s absence leaves a void in Nollywood and in hearts worldwide. Her laughter, her boldness, her unapologetic spirit—these are the gifts she leaves behind. As we mourn, we hold tight to her legacy of love and resilience, praying her soul finds the peace she so fiercely championed. Rest gently, Monalisa, our forever Gabacci.
