Nollywood Mourns Veteran Actor Francis Duru at 57

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Orion Reports 

Nollywood has lost one of its familiar faces. Veteran actor Francis Duru has reportedly diedat 57 after a brief illness, leaving colleagues and fans mourning a man whose performances helped shape the industry.

His family announced his death on Friday, October 23, in a statement shared on his official Instagram page.

“We, the family of Francis Duru, regret to announce his passing following a brief illness. We appreciate your prayers, love, and understanding. May his soul rest in perfect peace. Amen,” the statement read.

The National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Alhaji Abubakar Sanusi Yakubu, also confirmed the news, describing Duru as “another great thespian.”

Duru began acting in 1989 and became widely known for playing Ahanna in Amaka Igwe’s 1995 classic, Rattlesnake. He went on to build a career spanning more than three decades, earning respect for his contribution to Nigerian film.

A Theatre Arts graduate of the University of Port Harcourt, he also served as interim president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria in 2010 and was named a United Nations Ambassador of Peace in 2007.

His death comes just months after he addressed rumours about his health. In June, after a video showing him looking frail circulated online, Duru dismissed claims that he was seriously ill and reassured fans that he was fine.

Away from the screen, he endured a painful family loss in August 2024 when his youngest son, Ifeanyi, died. Duru spoke publicly about the heartbreak. He is survived by his wife, Adokiye, and their remaining children.

As news of his death spreads, tributes continue to come from colleagues and fans who remember him for the characters he brought to life and the years he devoted to Nollywood.

For those who grew up watching his films, his passing is a painful reminder of an era of Nigerian cinema that helped shape the industry.

May his soul rest in peace. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

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