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Nollywood Loses Francis Duru at 57
23 Oct
Summary
- Acclaimed Nigerian actor Francis Duru died at 57.
- The family announced his passing on Instagram Friday.
- He was known for films like 'Rattlesnake' and 'Merry Men'.
Francis Duru, a prominent Nigerian actor, has died at the age of 57. His family confirmed his passing early Friday, October 23rd, stating it followed a brief illness.
Duru, whose full name was Francis Ogide Duru, was a well-known figure in Nollywood for over 30 years. Born in Cameroon on July 27, 1969, to Nigerian parents, he pursued higher education in Nigeria.
He graduated with a degree in Theatre Arts from the University of Port Harcourt in 1996. His career began with 'Missing Mark' in 1989, but he gained significant recognition for his role as Ahanna in the 1995 film 'Rattlesnake'.
Duru's extensive filmography includes titles such as 'Blood Money,' 'Nnenda,' and 'Eagle Wings.' Beyond acting, he was also a director, producer, and writer. In 2020, he won Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) at the Best of Nollywood Awards.
He served as interim president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria in 2010. Duru was married to Adokiye Duru, and they had four children. The family had previously mourned the loss of their son, Ifeanyi, in August 2024.
