Don Richard Debunks Death Rumours, Says He Is Alive and Healthy

Don Richard has debunked viral reports claiming that he passed away on Thursday, April 23, 2026, following a long battle with kidney failure.

The false reports, which spread widely on social media, suggested that the veteran Nollywood actor had died after struggling with kidney-related health issues. However, Don Richard quickly responded in a video shared on his Instagram page on Friday, reassuring fans that he is alive and in good health.

“There’s nothing wrong with me, I appreciate my fans for the love and concern. I’m alive, hale and hearty. I dey alive ooo,” he said, while also criticising the spread of false information online.

The actor expressed frustration over what he described as irresponsible blogging, warning against spreading unverified claims about people’s lives.

Don Richard had previously opened up about his health struggles in 2025, revealing that he was battling kidney disease and had sold personal assets, including his house and cars, to fund treatment, while also seeking public financial assistance at the time.

Opinion: The Cost of Viral Misinformation

This incident highlights a growing problem in the digital space—how quickly misinformation can spread before facts are confirmed.

For public figures like Don Richard, false death reports are not just emotionally damaging to fans, but also deeply distressing to the individuals involved and their families. It turns real health struggles into viral speculation, often without regard for truth or sensitivity.

At the same time, his earlier openness about his health challenges may have unintentionally made him more vulnerable to such rumours, as online audiences sometimes blur the line between concern and assumption.

The bigger issue here is accountability in online reporting. While social media has made information faster, it has also made verification weaker. This case is another reminder that not everything trending is true—and that human lives should never become content for clicks.

In the end, Don Richard’s response is a relief to many fans, but also a warning: speed without accuracy can easily turn concern into confusion.