TV soap icon ‘loses part of herself’ as she announces death of father

Holby City actress Chizzy Akudolu shares sad news about her fathers passing (Picture: BBC/Kieron McCarron) Former Holby City star Chizzy Akudolu has shared the heartbreaking news that her father has died, describing the loss as feeling like ‘losing a part of yourself.’ The actress, who is also well known for competing on Strictly Come Dancing, announced the sad news in an emotional Instagram post, where she shared a carousel of family photos celebrating the life of her father, Raphael Nwose Akudolu. Revealing that he passed away on July 27 after spending two weeks in hospital, Chizzy paid tribute to the man she described as her ‘wonderful Father.’ She wrote: ‘On July 27th, 2026, after 2 weeks in hospital, my wonderful Father passed. I am heartbroken but grateful that his pain is now over.’ Reflecting on the kind of person he was, Chizzy remembered her dad as someone who could make people laugh without even trying. Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications. ‘He was honestly the most unintentionally funny man and no one had a bad word to say about him,’ she wrote. The actress went on to speak openly about the pain of losing a parent, saying it feels like losing a part of yourself. While heartbroken by his death, she said his legacy will live on through his children and grandchildren, who will continue to carry his memory with them. Chizzy also thanked the staff at the Margaret Centre at Whipps Cross Hospital for caring for her father during his final days, before ending the touching tribute with the words: ‘Raphael Nwose Akudolu, I love you. Thank you for being my Daddy.’ It wasn’t long before the comments section was flooded with messages of support from fans and famous friends, many of whom sent their condolences to the actress and her family. Fans and peers of Chizzy have been sharing their support for the actress (Picture: Chizzy Akudolu / Instagram) Holby City co-star David Ames wrote: ‘I’m so so sorry for your loss darling.’ Former Coronation Street and Emmerdale actress Hayley Tamaddon commented: ‘Oh Chiz, I’m so sorry my love. Sending the biggest hugs to you.’ Meanwhile, Beverley Knight wrote: ‘Oh my luv. I am so sorry and send you my heartfelt condolences. Here for you.’ TV presenter Lisa Snowdon also shared her support, commenting: ‘I’m so sorry Chizzy – heartbroken for you all. Sending love and strength.’ Chizzy is best known to soap and drama fans for playing consultant cardiothoracic surgeon Mo Effanga in Holby City. Joining the long-running BBC medical drama in 2012, she remained on the show until 2017, becoming a popular member of the cast thanks to her sharp humour, warmth and memorable friendships with fellow characters. Chizzy appeared in the BBC soap from 2012-2017 (Picture: BBC) Away from the wards, Chizzy also took on a very different challenge when she signed up for the fifteenth series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2017. Partnered with professional dancer Pasha Kovalev, she quickly became a fan favourite for her infectious personality and willingness to throw herself into every performance. Although her time in the competition was short-lived and she became the first celebrity to leave after losing the dance-off, Chizzy’s sense of humour and positivity won over viewers, and she has remained a much-loved face on British television ever since. Arrow MORE: Coronation Street’s Sienna star had major role in iconic UK TV show Arrow MORE: Coronation Street actress is back filming after 9 years – but there’s a twist Arrow MORE: Coronation Street star accused of ‘making disability up for benefits’ with abuse coming daily The Soaps Newsletter – Weekly Sign up for exclusive spoilers and interviews, handpicked by our Soaps Editor.