The plus-size model and actress who never let trolls have the last word

Monalisa Ayobami Stephen was a popular movie actress, plus-size model and known body positivity advocate.

She died at the age of 33, on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, in Lagos

Monalisa’s death was confirmed by her immediate younger sister and founder of the Best of Nollywood Awards, Seun Oloketuyi on Instagram. The actress reportedly succumbed to complications from low blood sugar and internal bleeding.

Her death came as a brutal shock to many netizens and Nollywood actors who stormed her social media page to pay tribute.

Monalisa Stephen was laid to rest Thursday, May 22, 2025 during a private interment.

Monalisa the actress, model and body-positivity advocate

Mona who was also known as Gabacci during her lifetime, featured in movies like Mami Wata (2023), Breaded Life (2021), and a myriad of comedy skits. She rose to prominence by using her platform to preach self-love and body positivity amongst plus-size women. She would often champion self-worth, acceptance, mental health awareness and more in many of her social media posts.

Earlier this year, in an interview, she said that plus-size actresses are discriminated against in Nollywood.

The actress who never let trolls have the last word

Mona’s posts were often met with hostility and criticism from trolls who body-shamed her for loving herself. In response, she continued to stress the essence of being kind, revealing her struggle with juvenile diabetes and the efforts she made to maintain her health. A force to behold, the 33-year-old sometimes slammed her detractors on multiple occasions, refusing to cower in their face.

On such occasions was in 2018, when Monalisa publicly addressed a woman who body-shamed her for having stretch marks. She shared the troll’s message and responded with a powerful statement about self-acceptance and the need for women to support each other.

During her lifetime, Monalisa consistently used her platform to challenge societal beauty standards. She encouraged individuals to embrace their bodies and reject harmful stereotypes.

Similarly, in April 2023, Monalisa Stephen stated that she prefers being called ‘fat’ rather than ‘plus-sized’.

Unlike many others who believe being called fat is offensive, Monalisa banished the thought of it being in such category during an interview with Saturday Beats.

In 2024, the actress refused to be pressured when compared to her colleagues — Eniola Badmus and Warri Pikin, who trimmed down their weight.

The deceased rather preached self-love and confidence in her outlook. Monalisa Stephen wrote on Instagram:

“I don’t want to be or look like Aunty Eniola Badmus or Real Warri Pikin. I don’t want to lose weight and be thin. Leave me alone with my fat body.

I am still here to Remind every one of you Trolls that I will forever be Me! I am not anyone and don’t even wish to be another Person.
Make una Dey Try Rest!

Anyone Lose weight na me una go Dey remember
And the worst narration is y’all saying I hate anyone who loses Weight !! Like how is that my Business!!!

This weight loss Agenda will not Agend with me Rara!!! I love me this way! If you can’t respect it! Block me”.

In her final Instagram post on April 29, she shared a video of herself dancing to Davido’s “10 Kilo,” celebrating plus-size confident women, a testament to her vibrant spirit and dedication to empowering others.

Adieu Mona

In accordance with her family’s wishes, Monalisa was laid to rest in a private ceremony on Thursday, May 22, 2025. The family requested continued prayers and respect for her memory during this difficult time.

Forever in our hearts

Monalisa Stephen’s legacy wouldn’t be forgotten in a heartbeat as it was one of courage, authenticity, and advocacy. Despite her critics, many more others resonated with her journey toward self-love.

As tributes continue to pour in from well-wishers, her impact on the Nigerian entertainment industry, her impact will always be remembered.

May her soul rest in perfect peace.