Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru has died at the age of 57 following a brief illness, his family has announced. The news was shared on his verified Instagram page on Friday, October 23, 2026. The family appealed for prayers and understanding as they mourn his passing.
The death was also confirmed by the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Abubakar Sanusi Yakubu, who paid tribute to the actor. Duru’s passing comes just months after he dismissed online rumours in June claiming he was battling a life-threatening illness, describing the reports as false and misleading.
Duru became widely known for playing Ahanna in the 1995 Nollywood classic Rattlesnake, directed by Amaka Igwe. He began his acting career in 1989 and studied Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt, graduating in 1996. Over the years, he established himself as a prominent figure in Nigeria’s film industry.
In 2020, Duru won the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) award at the Best of Nollywood Awards for his performance in Mboputa. He was also named a United Nations Ambassador of Peace in 2007 for his positive influence on young people. His death marks a significant loss to Nollywood and Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
