Sad! Nollywood Veteran Francis Duru Dies at 57 After Brief Illness

Nollywood has lost one of its familiar faces. Veteran actor, director and filmmaker Francis Duru has died at the age of 57 following a brief illness, according to a family announcement shared on his verified Instagram page on Friday, October 23, 2026.

Duru earned recognition for his role in the classic Nollywood film Rattlesnake and built a career spanning several decades in the Nigerian movie industry.

His death has been confirmed by the Actors Guild of Nigeria, with tributes expected from colleagues, fans and admirers mourning the loss of the veteran entertainer.

May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may God grant his family, colleagues and loved ones the strength to bear this painful loss.