Co-stars pay tribute to American actor Obi Ndefo, who tragically passed away at age 51 after overcoming the loss of his legs following a hit-and-run accident in 2019.
American actor Obi Ndefo, known for his role in the teen drama “Dawson’s Creek” from 1998 to 2002, passed away on Wednesday after his “heart gave out during his longstanding battle against eating disorder orthorexia,” his sister Nkem Ndefo shared on Instagram.
“As his family, we bring this news to raise awareness of the severity of orthorexia, hoping that those suffering from this devastating disease receive the compassionate care they deserve,” she added.
Orthorexia is an eating disorder characterized by an obsession with eating high-kquality, nutritious foods, often resulting in an extremely restricted diet. Ndefo, who also appeared in “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” and “Stargate SG-1,” had both of his legs amputated following a hit-and-run incident in Los Angeles in 2019
Fellow “Dawson’s Creek” star Katie Holmes, who portrayed Joey Potter, paid tribute to Obi Ndefo on Instagram, writing: “He was wonderful to work with and such a kind man. I send prayers and grace to his family. Rest in peace.”
Mary-Margaret Humes, who played Dawson Leery’s (James Van Der Beek) mother on the show, added: “These words don’t come easy. It’s hard for me to conceive that you have left us, my dear friend.”
Mary-Margaret Humes continued her tribute: “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.”
A GoFundMe page set up by Obi Ndefo’s family raised more than $287,000 (£218,385) to help cover the cost of his prosthetic legs, the necessary surgeries, and modifications to make his home wheelchair accessible.
The fundraising page, authored by Ndefo’s mother Susan Matranga, described how the actor was hit by a drunk driver in an SUV while shopping on Beverly Boulevard after teaching a yoga class. “According to the first responders and orthopedic surgeons, it is an absolute miracle that Obi survived,” the page read, noting that Ndefo continued to “smile and share positivity with everyone” throughout his recovery and multiple surgeries.
Updates on the page also highlighted how Ndefo continued practising yoga even after losing his legs.
In December 2020, Obi Ndefo shared an update himself, writing: “It’s been a challenge, but WE ARE ALL DEALT UNIQUE CHALLENGES which hold opportunities to make us stronger. My gratitude to all who have helped my transition to a new phase of life, and to deepening my dedication to service as an artist and educator.”
