Nollywood Actor, Bucci Franklin became emotional at the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards after winning the Best Supporting Actor award for his role in To Kill a Monkey.
The award ceremony, held in Lagos on Saturday, turned deeply emotional when the actor revealed that he lost his mother just seven days before the series premiered in July 2025.
Franklin received the award for his portrayal of Obozhuiomwen “Oboz” Ogbemudia, also known as Oboz da Boss, in the critically acclaimed series created by Kemi Adetiba.
As he stepped on stage to a standing ovation, the actor struggled to hold back tears while dedicating the award to his late mother.
“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.
Franklin explained that he created the character with his mother in mind and had hoped she would live to watch the performance.
“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 added.
The actor also used the moment to encourage young creatives, particularly those from the Niger Delta region, to remain committed to their dreams.
“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.
Franklin thanked Adetiba for casting him in the role that earned him the award, saying her belief in him made the achievement possible.
The actor had publicly announced the death of his mother, Joy Odurukwe, in December 2025 through a brief tribute on social media.
Released in July 2025, To Kill a Monkey follows Efemini “Efe” Edewor, played by William Benson, a struggling graduate drawn into cybercrime by his childhood friend Oboz.
The Netflix series explores themes of poverty, ambition, survival and corruption in contemporary Lagos and also stars Bimbo Akintola, Chidi Mokeme, Stella Damasus and Joke Silva.
Franklin’s performance as the charismatic but morally conflicted Oboz received widespread praise from critics and audiences alike.