Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru has died following a brief illness, his family has announced.
Newsonspot reports that the family confirmed his death in a statement published on the actor’s official Instagram page in the early hours of Friday, expressing gratitude to those who supported them with prayers, love and goodwill.
“We, the family of Francis Duru, regret to announce his passing following a brief illness,” the statement read.
The family also prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul.
The President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Mr Abubakar Yakubu, in a Facebook post in the wee hours of Friday, confirmed the death of the thespian.
“Another great thespian is gone. Rest in peace, Francis Duru,” the leader of the actors’ group in Nigeria wrote.
Also confirming the news of the deceased role-interpreter was the founder of Best of Nollywood (BON), Mr Seun Oloketuyi.
“Francis Duru is dead. Details later,” he posted.
Duru’s death comes months after he dismissed reports suggesting that he was battling a life-threatening illness.
The rumours emerged in June after a video showing the actor looking frail circulated on social media, prompting concerns among fans and colleagues.
However, Duru later addressed the reports in an Instagram video, describing the footage as “fabricated and malicious” and rejecting claims about his health.
Born on July 27, 1969, in Cameroon to Nigerian parents from Imo State, Duru completed his primary and secondary education before moving to Nigeria for university studies.
He attended the University of Port Harcourt in Rivers State, where he studied Theatre Arts and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1996.
The actor began his career in Nollywood in 1989, featuring in Missing Mark, a film directed by the late Ndubuisi Oko.
He rose to prominence in 1995 after starring in Rattlesnake, an action comedy produced by the late filmmaker Amaka Igwe. His portrayal of Ahanna in the movie earned him wider recognition and helped establish his place in the Nigerian film industry.
Throughout his career, Duru earned recognition for his contributions to entertainment and his influence among people. He was also named United Nations Ambassador of Peace.
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In 2020, he won the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) award at the Best of Nollywood Awards for his performance in Mboputa.
Beyond his career, Duru was married to his wife, Adokiye, in 2003, and they had four children together.
The family experienced a devastating loss in August 2024 when one of their children, Ifeanyi, died.
Duru’s death marks the end of a career spanning decades and leaves a significant gap in Nigeria’s film industry, where he was known for his memorable performances and contribution to the growth of Nollywood.
