Loose Women panelist and actress Chizzy Akudolu has shared her heartbreak following the sudden death of her longtime friend and fellow actor Anthony Adjekum.
The Holby City star revealed her shock and grief in an emotional Instagram post, admitting she was "completely flabbergasted" by the news.
The 51-year-old actress, known for her candid and personal confessions on the ITV daytime show, posted a heartfelt tribute accompanied by a smiling photo of the pair from happier times. In the image, the two are seated together, beaming at the camera.
In her moving caption, Chizzy wrote: "Completely flabbergasted by the loss of such a wonderful guy especially since we were chatting a week ago!! I met @adje_kum about 20 years ago when we did an improv show in Edinburgh. Then got to work with him in 2018 on a film.
"He had an amazing talent and really was the sweetest. I’ve printed off our last convo as a keepsake."
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Reflecting on her grief, the London-born actress added: "I’m confused as to what to do with these feelings. If you knew and loved this fabulous man, I’m sending you masses of love."
The post prompted an outpouring of support from fans and followers, with one commenting: "Yes. Grief is a strange and difficult thing! Sending love Chizzy."
Another wrote: "So sorry for your loss xx," while a third added, "Sorry for your loss Chizzy, sending all the love to help with the grieving process." Others expressed their condolences, with one saying: "So very sorry for the loss of your friend."
Chizzy has previously been open about her personal struggles, including breaking down on Loose Women over her battles with overeating and shopping addictions. In 2018, she bravely shared her journey to seek help for her overeating.
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More recently, in 2023, she discussed a cancer scare on the ITV series after discovering a lump. Thankfully, the actress was given the all-clear and used her experience to urge fans to "get it checked" if they notice anything unusual with their bodies.
“In May I found a lump. The NHS offer a 2 week service for breasts and I was seen for a mammogram and ultrasound. Thankfully I got the all-clear. Don't delay. Get it checked. Thank you to the NHS,” she posted on social media.
Chizzy added alongside the screengrab: “This is a free service. If you find a lump, get it checked. Stay safe and keep on supporting our fantastic NHS.”
