Strictly and Loose Women star left heartbroken as she reveals death of beloved father in touching tribute post

STRICTLY and Loose Women star Chizzy Akudolu has revealed the death of her beloved father. The actress and comedian, 52, has been left heartbroken as she shared that her dad has passed away following a battle with illness Strictly star Chizzy Akudolu shared the heartbreaking news that her father has passed away Credit: Instagram/lil_bit_of_chiz The actress (left) thanked the hospital staff for their support following the loss Credit: Instagram/lil_bit_of_chiz The TV personality shared her sad news as she posted a tribute to her late dad on her Instagram page on Monday afternoon. Writing alongside a slew of throwback photos and videos of her dad, devastated Chizzy, who is also well known for her role in BBC medical drama Holby City, 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. Sign up for the TV newsletter Thank you! “He was honestly the most unintentionally funny man and no one had a bad word to say about him. “Losing a parent means losing a part of yourself but his awesomeness lives on in all his children and grandchildren. The Holby City actress said ‘losing a parent means losing a part of yourself’ Credit: Instagram/lil_bit_of_chiz The former Loose Women star took part on Strictly in 2017 Credit: Getty Images – Getty “To the staff at the Margaret centre at Whipps cross hospital, thank you for looking after him.” The actress then heartbreakingly signed off with: “ Raphael Nwose Akudolu, I love you. Thank you for being my daddy.” Chizzy’s followers and celebrity pals rallied around to offer their support as they flooded the comments section with messages of condolences. EastEnders actress Molly Rainford was one of the first to offer their support. Most read in Showbiz She wrote: “Thinking of you.” While Chizzy’s Holby City co-star David Ames penned: “I’m so so sorry for your loss darling.” And TV and radio presenter Lisa Snowdon added: “I’m so sorry Chizzy – heartbroken for you all. Sending love and strength.” This Morning host Dermot O’Leary also added a single red heart underneath the post. Chizzy took part on Strictly in 2017 with Pasha Kovalev but finished in 15th place. Comment now