Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru dies at 57
Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru has died at the age of 57.
His family announced his passing in the early hours of Friday, October 23, 2026, in a statement posted on his official Instagram page.
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 death was also confirmed by the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), who described him as a pillar of the industry.
BRIEF ILLNESS AND HEALTH RUMOURS
Duru’s death comes months after he dismissed reports that he was battling a life-threatening illness.
In June this year, a video showing the actor looking frail went viral on social media, causing panic among fans and colleagues. He later addressed the video on Instagram, describing it as fabricated and malicious.
CAREER AND LEGACY
Born Francis Ogide Duru on July 27, 1969, in Cameroon to Nigerian parents from Imo State, Duru had his primary and secondary education in Cameroon before moving to Nigeria for his university education.
He gained admission to the University of Port Harcourt, where he studied Theatre Arts and graduated in 1996.
He began his acting career in 1989 with the film Missing Mark directed by the late Ndubuisi Oko. He rose to national prominence in 1995 after starring as Ahanna in the classic action film Rattlesnake produced by the late Amaka Igwe.
Over his 37-year career, he featured in several hit movies including Blood Money, Stigma, and Mboputa.
In 2007, he was honoured as a United Nations Ambassador of Peace for his positive influence on youths. In 2010, he served as interim President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria. In 2020, he won Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) at the Best of Nollywood Awards for his role in Mboputa.
FAMILY
Duru married his wife, Adokiye, in 2003, and they had four children. The family suffered a tragedy in August 2024 when their son Ifeanyi passed away.
He is survived by his wife and children.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
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