10 things to know about late Nollywood actor, Francis Duru
Francis Duru, a veteran actor in Nigeria’s film industry, passed away on October 23, 2026. His family confirmed the news on Friday, noting that he succumbed to a brief illness.
Born on July 27, 1969, in Cameroon to Nigerian parents from Imo State, Duru’s contributions to Nollywood spanned several decades. A graduate of the University of Port Harcourt, where he studied Theatre Arts, he completed his degree in 1996. His academic background set the stage for a successful career in acting and theatre.
Duru’s entry into the entertainment industry began in the late 1980s, during a pivotal period for Nollywood. His breakthrough role came with the film Rattlesnake, directed by Amaka Igwe, which earned him wider recognition and is regarded as a significant production from the 1990s.
Throughout his career, Duru appeared in various prominent films, including Blood Money, Home in Exile, Stigma, and Mboputa. His work in the industry was also marked by leadership roles; from 2010, he served as the interim president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria. His commitment to the guild contributed to the professional development of actors in the region.
In addition to his performances, Duru received several accolades throughout his career. He was nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the 2010 Africa Movie Academy Awards and won the award for Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) at the 2020 Best of Nollywood Awards for Mboputa.
Duru married Adokiye Duru in 2003, and the couple celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary in May 2023. Together, they had three children, although some sources suggest they may have a fourth.
In August 2024, Duru experienced the loss of his youngest son, Ifeanyi, which he shared with his followers in an emotional announcement on social media.
Following his passing, his family released a statement on his verified Instagram page expressing gratitude for the support they received. “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.”
