Veteran Nigerian actor Francis Duru has died at the age of 57, his family announced on his official Instagram account in the early hours of Friday, October 23, 2026. The family said the actor passed away after a brief illness, adding: “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.”
His death comes barely a month after the passing of another Nollywood legend, Olu Jacobs, who died at 84 after a long battle with dementia with Lewy bodies.
Born Francis Ogide Duru on July 27, 1969, in Cameroon to Nigerian parents from Imo State, he grew up in Cameroon before moving to Nigeria for his higher education. He studied Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt and graduated in 1996, a background that prepared him for a professional career in acting and the performing arts. Before establishing himself in Nollywood, he gained experience in theatre and television.
Duru began his film career with Missing Mark in 1989. His breakthrough came with the 1995 film Rattlesnake, produced by Amaka Igwe, in which he played the character Ahanna. The film established his reputation and opened doors to more opportunities. Over the years, he appeared in numerous films, including Blood Money, Nnenda, The Good Husband, Eagle Wings and Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons.
Beyond acting, Duru worked as a film director, producer, writer, master of ceremonies and television personality. In 2020, he won the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) award at the Best of Nollywood Awards for his performance in Mboputa. He also received the United Nations Ambassador of Peace Award in 2007 for his positive influence on young people.
Duru contributed to the development of Nigeria’s entertainment industry through professional leadership and mentorship. In 2010, he served as interim president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria and held other roles within industry organisations. He is survived by his wife, Adokiye Duru, and four children. In August 2024, the family lost their 15-year-old son, Ifeanyi. When he spoke publicly about the loss in January 2025, Duru said the experience deepened his faith in God.
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