Duru’s family announced his passing in a statement shared on his official Instagram page on Friday, October 23, expressing gratitude to fans and well-wishers for their prayers, love and support. The family did not disclose the specific illness or announce funeral arrangements.
Tributes have poured in from colleagues, entertainers and fans, many remembering Duru for his talent, humility and contributions to Nollywood over a career spanning more than three decades.
He became widely known for playing Ahanna in the 1995 film Rattlesnake, directed by the late filmmaker Amaka Igwe. The role helped establish his place among the recognisable faces of Nigerian cinema.
The President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Abubakar Sanusi Yakubu, also paid tribute to the late actor, describing his passing as the loss of a great thespian. Other entertainers, including Yomi Casual, Kunle Remi and Linda Ejiofor, expressed grief and offered prayers for his family.
Duru began his acting career in 1989 and went on to feature in numerous productions. He received the United Nations Ambassador of Peace award in 2007 and won Best Actor in a Leading Role in an Igbo-language film at the 2020 Best of Nollywood Awards for Mboputa.
His death has prompted renewed tributes to his lasting contribution to Nigerian film and the generations of viewers who grew up watching his performances.
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Nollywood actors and fans have paid tribute to veteran actor Francis Duru, who died at 57 after a brief illness. He was widely remembered for playing Ahanna in the classic film Rattlesnake. The Nigerian movie industry is mourning veteran actor Francis Duru following his death at the age of 57 after a brief illness.Duru’s family announced his passing...
Key takeaways
- Nollywood actors and fans have paid tribute to veteran actor Francis Duru, who died at 57 after a brief illness.
- He was widely remembered for playing Ahanna in the classic film Rattlesnake.
- The Nigerian movie industry is mourning veteran actor Francis Duru following his death at the age of 57 after a brief illness.Duru’s family announced his passing in a statement shared on his official Instagram page on Friday, October 23, expressing gratitude to fans and well-wishers for their prayers, love and support.
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Nollywood actors and fans have paid tribute to veteran actor Francis Duru, who died at 57 after a brief illness. He was widely remembered for playing Ahanna in the classic film Rattlesnake. The Nigerian movie industry is mourning veteran actor Francis Duru following his death at the age of 57 after a brief illness.Duru’s family announced his passing...
Who published this story?
Glow 99.1 FM published this story with GlowRy Atuah listed as author.
When was it published?
October 23, 2026
