The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru, who has passed away at the age of 57 after a brief illness.
His family announced the sad news in a statement shared on the actor’s official Instagram page in the early hours of Friday, expressing deep appreciation to fans and well-wishers for their outpouring of prayers, love, and support during this difficult time.
Born on July 27, 1969, in Cameroon to Nigerian parents from Imo State, Duru completed his early education in Cameroon before relocating to Nigeria for his higher education.
He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts from the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, in 1996.
His professional journey in the movie industry began in 1989 when he appeared in the film Missing Mark, directed by the late Ndubuisi Oko.
Duru rose to national prominence in 1995 for his iconic role as Ahanna in the classic film Rattlesnake, produced by the late filmmaker Amaka Igwe.
Over a career spanning decades, he cemented his status as a pillar of Nollywood, starring in numerous acclaimed productions including Blood Money (1997), Stigma (2013), and Mboputa (2020).
His dedication to the craft earned him widespread recognition, such as the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) award at the 2020 Best of Nollywood Awards and a nomination for Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the 2010 Africa Movie Academy Awards.
Beyond his on-screen achievements, Duru was a respected leader and influencer within the creative community.
In 2007, he was honoured as a United Nations Ambassador of Peace in recognition of his positive influence on young people, and he later served as the interim president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria in 2010.
His death comes just months after he publicly dismissed false online footage and rumours circulating in June that claimed he was battling a life-threatening illness.
The late actor is survived by his wife, Adokiye, and their children.
As tributes pour in from colleagues, fans, and industry leaders celebrating his remarkable legacy, the family has requested privacy and understanding as they mourn, concluding their announcement with a prayer for his soul to rest in perfect peace.
