‘Dawson’s Creek’ actor Obi Ndefo dies at 51, five years after life-changing car accident

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Obi Ndefo, known for his roles in 'Dawson’s Creek' and 'Stargate SG-1,' has died at the age of 51.

His death comes five years after a tragic car accident in 2019. The news was confirmed by his sister, Nkem Ndefo, who expressed her grief on August 31st.

The cause of his passing has not been revealed. In the wake of this loss, co-stars including Katie Holmes and Mary-Margaret Humes, along with fans, have expressed their condolences and paid tribute to his memory online.

Obi Ndefo’s family and co-stars mourn for his death

In a heartfelt Instagram and Facebook post, Nkem Ndefo announced the death of her brother Obi, expressing, "Heartbroken at the loss of my younger brother  and knowing he’s finally at peace." The post was accompanied by a photo of the siblings smiling together in a selfie, capturing a moment of their bond.

Katie Holmes paid tribute to Obi Ndefo on her Instagram Stories, writing, "He was wonderful to work with and such a kind man. I sent prayers and grace to his family. Rest in peace." 

Mary-Margaret Humes, who portrayed Gale Leery on 'Dawson's Creek,' also honored Obi Ndefo with a heartfelt message on Instagram, joining others in paying tribute to his memory.

She wrote, "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."

She added, “I will cherish all of our messages of love and support to each other over the past few years. Rest in peace sweet warrior."

Who was Obi Ndefo?

According to his IMDb profile, Obi Ndefo studied drama at Yale University and made his acting debut in 1995 with an appearance on 'Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.'

Over the following 25 years, Obi Ndefo appeared in a wide range of television shows, including 'The Jamie Foxx Show,' 'Angel,' 'Columbo,' 'Crossing Jordan,' 'NYPD Blue,' 'The West Wing,' and 'Stargate SG-1.'

He is perhaps best remembered for his role as Bodie Wells on 'Dawson’s Creek,' which he played from 1998 to 2002.

In the series, Bodie is a chef in Capeside who works alongside Dawson Leery’s (James Van Der Beek) mother, Gale Leery (Mary-Margaret Humes), at the restaurant Leery’s Fresh Fish. He is also in a relationship with Bessie Potter (Nina Repeta).

Obi Ndefo had faced health challenges after car accident

Obi Ndefo faced significant health challenges in recent years. In 2019, he was struck by a speeding driver while loading groceries into his car outside an Erewhon store in Los Angeles. The driver fled the scene, but a bystander stayed with Obi until paramedics arrived.

Obi later told NBC Los Angeles that he repeatedly said, "I'm alive, I'm alive, I'm alive," to stay calm after the accident. Following the incident, he underwent extensive surgeries and rehabilitation and was fitted with prosthetic legs.

In 2023, he reflected, "I almost died and it's a miracle I'm still alive," attributing his swift recovery to his love of healthy foods.

In addition to his acting career, which began in the 1990s, Obi Ndefo also worked as a writer and taught yoga to twice-exceptional children—those who are both gifted and have special needs.

Despite facing significant challenges, he continued to act and write. He co-created the show 'Juice Bar' and appeared on 'NCIS: Los Angeles' in 2021. At the time of his death, he was working on a series called 'Dream Big.'

Internet pays tribute to Obi Ndefo following his death

Following the news of Obi Ndefo's death, many internet users have reached out to offer their condolences and share comforting messages with his sister.

One user said, "Oh Nkem I’m so very sorry. Holding you and your family in my heart and praying for peace and comfort. So much love ♥️"

Another shared, "So sorry to hear of your loss. Sending love and support❤"

One user added, "Nkem I’m so very sorry for your loss, may his spirit be free and may your family’s hearts all mend in time. My deepest condolences."

Another user wrote on Facebook, "Prayers and healing for your family 🙏🏼"

One more person shared, "I’m so deeply sorry. Just devastating… I’m endlessly thankful for his kindness, gentleness and caring, beautiful heart. Holding you and your family with me and sending all my love 💔❤️"

One fan claimed, "I am so very for your loss, sending lots of love your way💕" [sic]

Another said, "Too Young 🙁 My Condolences 💐" The last user said, "Oh no. I remember when the accident happened. I’m so sorry for all of the loss and pain he suffered. I’ll be holding him and you in my heart. As you say, he is in a place of pure peace now."

This article contains remarks made on the internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online