Nollywood veteran Francis Duru has died at the age of 57 following a brief illness, his family announced on his official Instagram page in the early hours of Friday, October 23, 2026. Duru’s death comes after months of denying reports about his health condition. Reactions to the news have poured in from fans and colleagues alike, with many expressing their condolences and mourning the loss of a talented actor.
Duru, who started his career in the early 90s, became a household name with his roles in popular films such as ‘Living in Bondage,’ ‘A Place Called Joy,’ and ‘Power of Love.’ He was also known for his versatility and theatre background.
According to reports, Duru died in the early hours of Friday, but the exact cause of his death remains unclear. His family’s announcement on Instagram read, ‘We, the family of Francis Duru, regret to announce his passing following a brief illness. We appreciate the support and prayers from fans and well-wishers during this difficult time.’
Duru’s death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from his colleagues in the Nigerian movie industry. Many have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of working with the veteran actor.
Francis Duru’s legacy in Nollywood will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come. The actor’s contributions to the industry and his impact on audiences will continue to inspire future generations of actors and filmmakers.










