Ekene Umenwa Cynthia Ogbodo, born on August 27, 1991, in Benin City, Edo State, is a multifaceted Nigerian actress, content creator, entrepreneur, comedian, and event planner. Raised alongside her sisters Kate Martins and Somto Umenwa, Ekene is the daughter of Lucy Ogoamaka and Dazie Umenwa.
Ekene entered the entertainment industry in 2011, debuting in King After Kings as a maid, sharing the screen with Nollywood stars Kenneth Okonkwo and Maureen Solomon. Over the years, she has worked with prominent actors like Zubby Michael, Destiny Etiko, Kanayo O. Kanayo, and Maleek Milton. Gaining fame not only through her acting but also her comedic talents, Ekene has built a strong social media presence, particularly on TikTok, where her comic skits have garnered immense popularity.
Her breakthrough came in 2013 with her role in Black Choir, during her university days. After a brief hiatus to focus on her studies, Ekene returned in 2016 and has since appeared in numerous films and TV shows. She also runs a self-titled YouTube channel, launched in October 2016, where she shares films and skits. Some of her notable works on the platform include One Day Principle, Crazy Daughter, Something More Than Gold, Baby Nanny, and Set Me Free.
Beyond acting, Ekene is an entrepreneur, heading her own company, Ekyevents Confectionery Services. As a brand influencer, she has collaborated with companies like Nze Venture Homes.
In her personal life, Ekene married Alex Ifeanyi Ogbodo, also known as Alex Kleanson, a film producer and realtor. The couple met in 2018, got engaged in 2022, and celebrated their traditional wedding on April 16, 2023, in Igbo Ukwu, Anambra State, followed by their white wedding on October 22, 2023, in Benin City.
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A heartwarming moment from their wedding went viral when gospel singer Moses Bliss performed, and Ekene, overwhelmed with emotion, rushed to his side, hugging his legs in admiration. This moment sparked mixed reactions online.
Recently, on September 2, 2024, Ekene shared the joyous news of welcoming their first child in the United States via her Instagram page. Her husband, Alex, who is also the General Manager of Firstnollytv and CEO of Kleanson Concept, continues to support her in both their professional and personal lives.
Ekene Umenwa Ogbodo’s journey from rising Nollywood actress to accomplished entrepreneur and now a mother reflects her versatility and resilience in the entertainment industry.