Bucci Franklin, the Nigerian actor, has opened up on how he lost his mother, Joy Odurukwe, at the 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards.
The actor who fought back tears while accepting the award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in ‘To Kill a Monkey’ shared that he lost his mother only seven days before the series was released in July 2025.
Franklin received the award for playing Obozhuiomwen “Oboz” Ogbemudia, also known as Oboz da Boss, in the acclaimed series created by Kemi Adetiba.
When his name was announced, the audience broke into applause and gave a brief standing ovation as he walked to the stage. What started as a celebration quickly became one of the night’s most emotional moments.
“Seven days before To Kill A Monkey came out, I lost the most important person in my life. I lost my mum, my guardian angel, my prayer warrior, my best friend,” he said.
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The visibly emotional actor explained that he dedicated his performance to his late mother and had hoped she would see the character he worked so hard to create.
“I created Oboz for her by the special grace of God, but she didn’t get to watch it. Thank you, Jesus. I know my mum is throwing a party right now,” he said.
Franklin’s heartfelt tribute moved many in the audience, with several guests visibly emotional as he struggled to continue his speech.
The Port Harcourt-born actor then turned his victory into a message of hope for young creatives, especially those from the Niger Delta.
“To that creative, wherever you are, especially you in the Niger Delta, because I am a Port Harcourt boy, whatever it is you are doing, keep doing it. Don’t stop,” he said.
He also paid tribute to Adetiba for casting him in the role that earned him the prestigious award.
“Thank you, Kemi Adetiba. If you did not cast me, my sister, I would not be here. God bless you and your husband, Oscar,” he added.
Released in July 2025, To Kill a Monkey follows Efemini “Efe” Edewor, played by William Benson, a brilliant but struggling graduate who is drawn into the world of cybercrime by his childhood friend Oboz.
Created by Adetiba, the eight-episode crime thriller premiered on Netflix and explores themes of poverty, ambition, morality, survival and corruption in contemporary Lagos.
The series also stars Bimbo Akintola, Chidi Mokeme, Stella Damasus and Doyle. Franklin’s portrayal of the charismatic and morally complex Oboz was widely praised by critics and viewers.
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