LAGOS, Nigeria — Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru, whose film career spanned more than three decades, has died at the age of 57 following a brief illness, his family has announced.
The family confirmed his death in a statement published on his official Instagram account on Friday, October 23, 2026.
“We, the family of Francis Duru, regret to announce his passing following a brief illness,” the statement said.
“We appreciate your prayers, love, and understanding. May his soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.”
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The family did not disclose the nature of Duru’s illness, the precise date of his death, or arrangements for his funeral.
Actors Guild Pays Tribute to Duru
Abubakar Yakubu, president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), confirmed the actor’s death and paid tribute to his contributions to the Nigerian film industry.
In comments reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, Yakubu described Duru as “an iconic actor, a revered veteran and an exceptional practitioner”.
“Beyond his remarkable performances, he was a mentor and inspiration to generations of practitioners. He nurtured emerging talents, leaving behind not only a remarkable body of work, but also a legacy of excellence, discipline and professionalism,” Yakubu said.
Duru had previously held a leadership position in the guild, serving as its interim president in 2010.
A Career Spanning More Than Three Decades
Born on July 27, 1969, in Cameroon to Nigerian parents from Imo State, Duru completed his early education in Cameroon before moving to Nigeria.
He studied Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt, graduating in 1996.
His acting career began in 1989 with Missing Mark, a film directed by Ndubuisi Oko.
He became more widely recognised for portraying Ahanna in Rattlesnake, the 1995 film produced by filmmaker Amaka Igwe.
The role established Duru among the actors who became prominent during Nollywood’s early expansion.
He subsequently appeared in several Nigerian films, including Blood Money, Stigma, and Mboputa.
His performance in Mboputa earned him the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) award at the 2020 Best of Nollywood Awards.
Duru also received a nomination for Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards in 2010.
Alongside his film work, he participated in professional and leadership activities within the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Actor Had Denied Earlier Reports of Serious Illness
Duru’s death comes four months after he publicly challenged claims circulating online that he was suffering from a severe illness.
In June, images and video footage purporting to show him in a weakened physical condition prompted questions about his health.
He responded with a video denying the claims and accusing those responsible of circulating misleading material.
The actor described the footage as “fabricated and malicious”.
At the time, he reassured supporters that he was not in the critical condition portrayed in the circulating material.
His family’s latest announcement did not indicate whether the illness preceding his death was connected to any earlier medical condition.
Duru had also experienced a family bereavement in August 2024, when his 15-year-old son, Ifeanyi, died.
The actor publicly mourned his son and subsequently spoke about the loss while continuing his professional commitments.
Duru married his wife, Adokiye, in 2003. The couple had four children, including Ifeanyi.
His family has requested prayers and understanding following his death.
