Obi Ndefo, known for his unforgettable role as Bodie Wells on “Dawson’s Creek,” has died at the age of 51.
At a Glance
- Actor Obi Ndefo has died at age 51.
- Ndefo’s death was announced by his sister, Nkem Ndefo.
- He passed away due to complications from orthorexia.
- Known for his roles on “Dawson’s Creek” and “Stargate SG-1.”
- The family aims to raise awareness about orthorexia and its link to autoimmunity.
Obi Ndefo’s Remarkable Career
Actor Obi Ndefo, celebrated for his roles in “Dawson’s Creek” and “Stargate SG-1,” passed away at the age of 51. His death, announced by his sister Nkem Ndefo on social media, marks a significant loss for the acting community and his fans. Ndefo’s versatile acting skills made him a favorite in various TV shows, including “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” and “The West Wing.”
Ndefo’s sister revealed that his death occurred due to complications from orthorexia, an eating disorder. He passed away on August 28 at a Los Angeles hospital. Orthorexia, which began with a raw vegan diet, focused more on controlling food than on health. Nkem Ndefo expressed the need for conventional treatment centers to adopt recent research linking autoimmunity and eating disorders.
Obi Ndefo, 'Dawson's Creek' Actor Who Lost His Legs After Hit-and-Run Accident, Dies at 51 https://t.co/SLocXk8B92
— Variety (@Variety) September 2, 2024
Obi Ndefo’s Early Life and Challenges
Ndefo pursued drama at Yale University, where he graduated with a BA in 1994 and an MFA in 1997. Besides acting, he was a yoga teacher and founded the non-profit Arts Alliance for Humanity. In 2019, a hit-and-run accident caused by a drunk driver resulted in the loss of both his legs. Despite this tragedy, Ndefo maintained a positive outlook, sharing in an interview with the L.A. Times, “This is just so horrendous what happened to me, why would I compound this by feeling bad about it?”
In the wake of the accident, a GoFundMe campaign raised over $290,000 to cover his medical expenses and prosthetics. He often credited his recovery to his interest in healthy foods, stating, “I credit my love of and fascination with healthy foods to my rapid recovery.” His account of the accident, as he shared with NBC Los Angeles, “I just started repeating, ‘I’m alive, I’m alive, I’m alive, I’m alive,’ just to keep myself calm.”
Legacy and Family’s Message
Nkem Ndefo highlighted the challenges her brother faced with his eating disorder, emphasizing the need for awareness and compassion in the treatment of orthorexia. “Heartbroken at the loss of my younger brother and knowing he’s finally at peace,” she expressed. The family is currently raising awareness and donations for research on autoimmunity in eating disorders through the National Eating Disorder Association.
Mary-Margaret Humes, a co-star from “Dawson’s Creek,” posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, stating, “These words don’t come easy. It’s hard for me to conceive that you have left us, my dear friend. You always were and always will be a bright shining light. What an example of pure unfiltered love and tenacity you set as you faced life’s challenges of recent. I will cherish all of our messages of love and support to each other over the past few years. Rest in peace sweet warrior.”
Obi Ndefo’s legacy continues to inspire and bring attention to essential health issues. His contributions to television and his resilience in the face of personal hardships will be remembered by his fans and the broader acting community.
