Nollywood Veteran Actor Francis Duru Dies at 57 After Brief Illness

Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru has died at the age of 57 following a brief illness, his family has announced.

According to Punch on Friday, the family confirmed his death in a statement shared on the actor’s official Instagram page in the early hours of Friday, October 23, 2026. They expressed sadness over his passing and thanked fans and well-wishers for their prayers and support.

The statement read, “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 National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Alhaji Abubakar Sanusi Yakubu, also confirmed the actor’s death. In a tribute shared on Instagram, he described Duru as “another great thespian gone.”

Duru’s death comes months after he denied rumours that he was suffering from a serious illness. In June 2026, a video showing him looking weak circulated on social media, raising concerns among his fans and colleagues.

The actor later released a video dismissing the footage as “fabricated and malicious.” He insisted that he was in good health and would continue to grow stronger.

Born Francis Ogide Duru on July 27, 1969, in Cameroon to Nigerian parents from Imo State, Duru later moved to Nigeria, where he studied Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1996.

He began his acting career in 1989 with the film Missing Mark, directed by the late Ndubuisi Oko. However, he became widely known in 1995 after playing Ahanna in the popular action-comedy film Rattlesnake, produced by the late Amaka Igwe.

Over more than three decades, Duru featured in numerous Nollywood productions and earned respect for his contributions to the Nigerian film industry.

Beyond acting, he was also known for his efforts to inspire young people. In 2007, he received the United Nations Ambassador of Peace award. He later served as interim president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria in 2010.

The actor was also nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards. In 2020, he won Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) at the Best of Nollywood Awards for his performance in Mboputa.

Duru married Adokiye Duru in 2003, and their marriage produced four children. However, the family suffered a painful loss in August 2024 when their son, Ifeanyi, died.

Following the announcement of his death, tributes have continued to pour in from fellow actors, industry figures and fans, who are remembering him for his talent and contributions to Nollywood.

His death marks the loss of another veteran figure in Nigeria’s movie industry.

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