Patrick Doyle Mourns Loss of Newborn Daughter Omayinuwa

​Lagos, Nigeria – The Nigerian entertainment industry is in a state of mourning following the heartbreaking news that veteran actor and broadcaster, Patrick Doyle, has lost his newborn daughter, Omayinuwa Mayen Harriet Doyle, just 24 hours after celebrating her arrival.

​The tragedy unfolded in a sudden turn of events that saw the 65-year-old actor go from immense joy to profound sorrow within a single weekend. Doyle had initially taken to social media on Saturday morning to announce the birth of his daughter with his wife, Olufunmilayo, whom he married in 2023. At the time of the announcement, he expressed deep gratitude, stating that both mother and child were “doing well” and that he was “overwhelmed with joy.”

​However, the atmosphere shifted on Sunday when the broadcaster shared a somber update. Little Omayinuwa, who was born at approximately 10:40 AM on Friday, April 10, 2025, passed away the following afternoon, Saturday, April 11, at about 4:15 PM.

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​A Brief Visit

​In a poignant Facebook post, Doyle described his daughter’s life as a brief but impactful visitation.

​”Omayinuwa visited us briefly… and returned to heaven. Her stay was short but it brought great joy with it. We would have wished for a longer stay, but alas heaven thought otherwise,” he wrote.

​Despite the devastating loss, the Delta-born actor maintained a resolute tone of faith, concluding his message with the Yoruba phrase, “Sibe sibe Oluwa n’be” (God still reigns), and the classic hymn refrain, “It is well with our soul.”

​Industry Reaction

​The news has sparked a wave of condolences from colleagues and fans alike. Many have taken to various social platforms to offer prayers for the Doyle family, particularly for his wife, Olufunmilayo, who is a private chef and owner of Funmidee Cuisines.

​Doyle, a household name known for his roles in classics like After 30 and his extensive career in broadcasting, has often spoken about the happiness he found in his new marriage following his high-profile divorce from actress Ireti Doyle. This child would have been his first with Funmilayo.