Nollywood star Francis Duru dies at 57
Duru became prominent in the Nigerian film industry in 1995 after featuring in an action-comedy film titled Rattlesnake.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Nollywood veteran Francis Duru has passed away at the age of 57.
His passing was announced on Friday morning, 23 October 2026, in a statement shared on his verified Instagram page by his family.
According to the announcement, the legendary thespian passed away peacefully following a brief illness.
“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.
Confirming his death via a text message sent to TheNiche, his colleague Kanayo O. Kanayo wrote, “Francis Duru, my colleague, is gone.”
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Duru debuted in the Nigerian film industry in 1989 with a film titled Missing Mark, which was directed by the now-deceased director Ndubuisi Oko.
He, however, became more prominent in 1995 after featuring in an action-comedy film titled Rattlesnake, produced by the late director Amaka Igwe.
Duru was also a recipient of the United Nations Ambassador of Peace award for his positive influence on young people.
He won the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) award at the 2020 Best of Nollywood Awards for his role in Mboputa.
