Politics
“We Appreciate Your Prayers” – Francis Duru’s Family Breaks Silence On Actor’s Death At 57
has announced his death at the age of 57 following a brief illness.
The family of veteran Nollywood actor, Francis Duru, has announced his death at the age of 57 following a brief illness.
The family disclosed the actor’s death in a statement posted on his official Instagram page in the early hours of Friday, expressing appreciation for the prayers, love and support received from those mourning him.
“We, the family of Francis Duru, regret to announce his passing following a brief illness,” the statement read, adding “We appreciate your prayers, love, and understanding. May his soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.”
Duru’s death comes months after he denied reports that he was battling a life-threatening illness.
In June, a video showing the actor looking frail circulated on social media, sparking concerns among fans and colleagues.
However, Duru dismissed the footage as “fabricated and malicious” in a video shared on his Instagram page.
Born on July 27, 1969, in Cameroon to Nigerian parents from Imo State, Duru completed his primary and secondary education in the country before relocating to Nigeria for university education.
He studied Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1996.
The actor began his career in the Nigerian film industry in 1989 with Missing Mark, but gained wider recognition in 1995 after featuring in Rattlesnake, an action-comedy produced by the late filmmaker Amaka Igwe.
He played the character Ahanna in the film, which helped establish his presence in Nollywood.
Throughout his career, Duru received several awards and honours for his contributions to the entertainment industry.
He was named a United Nations ambassador of peace in recognition of his influence on young people.
In 2020, he won the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) award at the Best of Nollywood Awards for his performance in Mboputa.
Duru married his wife, Adokiye, in 2003, and they had four children together.
The family suffered a painful loss in August 2024 when one of their children, Ifeanyi, died.
