Seven things to know about the late actor, Francis Duru

Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru has died at the age of 57, according to reports published on Friday, October 23, 2026.

His family reportedly announced his death in a statement shared on his verified Instagram page, saying he had been ill for a brief period. The specific illness was not disclosed.

Here are seven things to know about the actor and his career.

1. He was born on 27 July 1969

Francis Duru was born on 27 July 1969 in Cameroon to Nigerian parents from Imo State, according to biographical sources. He later moved to Nigeria for his higher education.

2. He studied Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt

Duru studied Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, graduating in 1996, according to published biographical accounts.

3. He began his acting career in 1989

He made his film debut in Missing Mark in 1989. His career in the Nigerian film industry subsequently spanned more than three decades.

4. He became widely known for playing Ahanna in Rattlesnake

Duru gained prominence for his role as Ahanna in Rattlesnake, the film produced by the late filmmaker Amaka Igwe. The film became one of the defining works associated with his career.

5. He won a Best of Nollywood Award in 2020

Duru won the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) award at the 2020 Best of Nollywood Awards for his performance in Mboputa.

6. He served in the Actors Guild of Nigeria’s leadership

In 2010, Duru was appointed interim president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN). That same year, he received a nomination for Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards.

7. He received a United Nations Ambassador of Peace award

In 2007, Duru received a United Nations Ambassador of Peace award in recognition of his influence on young people, according to the Nigerian Copyright Commission’s profile of the actor.