At the age of only 51, the actor Obi Ndefo, who played, among other things, in one of the most popular series of the turn of the millennium, Dawson’s World, died. The death of the actor was announced on social networks by his sister. “I am devastated by the loss of my younger brother but I know he is finally resting in peace,” the actor’s sister Nkem Ndefo said on Facebook on Saturday.
On Monday morning, the nurse also specified the cause: “Obi Ndefo died on Wednesday morning in a hospital in Los Angeles. Unfortunately, Obi’s heart stopped working as a result of his long-term struggle with orthorexia,” she added. In Latin, orthorexia nervosa is a psychological disorder in which a person strongly clings to a healthy diet. Ideas about healthy eating are paramount for him, and he feels guilty when breaking strict dietary rules.
The actor, who was a graduate of Yale University, starred in the aforementioned series from 1998 to 2002, portraying Katie Holmes’ brother-in-law Bodie Wells. At the same time, from 2000, he worked in the sci-fi series Stargate for five years.
His famous co-star Katie Holmes has already commented on the sad event. “It was wonderful to work with such a nice man. My prayers go out to his family. Rest in peace,” the actress wrote on Instagram with a heart emoticon.
“These words are not easy for me. It is hard to imagine that you have left us, my dear friend. You have always been and always will be a bright shining light. You’ve been an example of pure love and tenacity when you’ve faced many challenges in life lately,” actress Mary-Margaret Humes also paid tribute to her colleague in a video from their time together. She played Dawson Leery’s mother in the series.
Five years ago, Ndefo lost both lower limbs as a result of a serious accident. Then twenty-five-year-old John Michael Maese hit him with a car in Los Angeles and fled the scene. The man was driving under the influence of alcohol. The actor had one leg completely crushed and the doctors had to amputate the other. He also founded the non-profit organization Arts Alliance for Humanity.
