'Dawson's Creek' actor Obi Ndefo dies at 51, remembered for resilience and acting career

Obi Ndefo, known for his role as Bodie Wells on Dawson's Creek, has passed away at the age of 51. His death was announced by his sister, Nkem Ndefo, in a heartfelt Facebook post on August 31, 2024. The cause of death has not been disclosed. "Heartbroken at the loss of my younger brother," Nkem wrote, adding that he is "finally at peace."

Ndefo, a graduate of Yale University's drama school, appeared in several television shows, including The West Wing, Star Trek: Voyager, Stargate SG-1, and The Jamie Foxx Show. However, he is best known for his role on Dawson's Creek, where he portrayed Bodie Wells from 1998 to 2002.

Following the announcement of his death, former co-star Mary-Margaret Humes, who played Gale Leery on the show, paid tribute to Ndefo on Instagram. "It’s hard for me to conceive that you have left us, my dear friend," she wrote. "You always were and always will be a bright shining light." Humes also shared a montage of behind-the-scenes moments with Ndefo on the set of Dawson's Creek.

Ndefo's passing comes five years after he lost both of his legs in a hit-and-run incident in 2019. Despite the tragedy, Ndefo remained resilient, telling the Los Angeles Times, "There is no other choice for me... my legs are severed. I don’t know how to do this, but I know how to do this."

A GoFundMe page set up for Ndefo in 2020 raised over $200,000 to cover the costs of prosthetic legs and home renovations. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues alike, who remember him for his strength, talent, and perseverance.