BREAKING: Veteran Nollywood Actor Francis Duru Dies At 57
By Kpomkwem News Entertainment Desk
Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru has died at the age of 57 following a brief illness, his family has announced.
The actor’s family confirmed his death in a statement posted on his official Instagram page in the early hours of Friday, October 23, 2026. Confirm it here
“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 statement read.
The President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Abubakar Sanusi Yakubu, also confirmed the development, paying tribute to the late actor.
“Another great thespian is gone. Rest in peace, Francis Duru,” Yakubu wrote.
Duru was one of Nollywood’s familiar faces, with a career spanning several decades. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Ahanna in the 1995 Nigerian action film Rattlesnake, produced by the late filmmaker Amaka Igwe.
His death comes months after he dismissed social media reports suggesting that he was battling a life-threatening illness. In June 2026, the actor publicly rejected the claims and reassured fans about his condition.
However, his family has now confirmed his passing, although the specific illness that led to his death has not been disclosed.
His death marks another loss for Nigeria’s entertainment industry, with tributes expected from colleagues, fans and admirers celebrating his contributions to Nollywood.
Kpomkwem News extends its condolences to his family, colleagues and loved ones.
May his soul rest in peace.
