Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru, whose death was announced by his family on Friday, October 23, 2026, was a prominent figure in Nigeria’s movie industry, with a career spanning several decades.
Known for his versatility, theatre background and memorable performances, Duru contributed to the growth of Nollywood and earned recognition for his work on screen and within the acting profession.
Following the announcement of his death after a brief illness, here are 10 things to know about the late actor.
1. He was born in Cameroon
Francis Duru was born on July 27, 1969, in Cameroon to Nigerian parents from Imo State, southeastern Nigeria.
2. He studied Theatre Arts
Duru studied Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, graduating in 1996. His formal training provided a foundation for his work in acting and theatre.
3. He began his acting career in the late 1980s
The late actor started his journey in the entertainment industry in the late 1980s. He later established himself as a professional actor during Nollywood’s formative years.
4. His breakthrough came with Rattlesnake
Duru gained wider recognition for his performance in Rattlesnake, a film associated with renowned filmmaker Amaka Igwe. The production became one of the notable Nigerian movies of the 1990s and helped strengthen his profile in the industry.
5. He featured in several Nigerian films
Over the course of his career, Duru appeared in numerous film productions. Some of the movies associated with his filmography include Rattlesnake, Blood Money, Home in Exile, Stigma and Mboputa.
6. He served in a leadership role in the Actors Guild of Nigeria
Beyond acting, Duru participated in the activities of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN). In 2010, he served as the guild’s interim president, contributing to discussions and activities concerning the professional interests of Nigerian actors.
7. He received awards recognition
Duru earned recognition for his contributions to the film industry. He was nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the 2010 Africa Movie Academy Awards.
He also won Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) at the 2020 Best of Nollywood Awards for his performance in Mboputa.
8. He married Adokiye Duru in 2003
Francis Duru married his wife, Adokiye Duru, in 2003. The couple celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary in May 2023.
The actor had publicly expressed appreciation for his wife, acknowledging her support throughout their marriage.
Reports about the couple’s family have differed, with some stating that they had three children and others putting the number at four.
9. He lost his youngest son in 2024
In August 2024, Duru announced the death of his youngest son, Ifeanyi, in an emotional social media post.
The loss was a painful experience for the actor and his family.
10. His family announced his death on October 23, 2026
Duru’s family announced his death on Friday, October 23, 2026, stating that he passed away following a brief illness.
In a statement shared on his verified Instagram page, the family wrote:
“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.”
His death marks the loss of an actor whose work spanned generations of Nigerian filmmaking and whose performances earned him a place among familiar faces in Nollywood.
May his soul rest in peace.
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