SHOWTV NOLLYWOOD: Veteran Actor Francis Duru Dies At 57 – Family Confirms Passing After Brief Illness

Sad news don shake Nollywood today.

Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru don die at age 57 after a brief illness.

The family confirm his passing in a statement shared on the actor's verified Instagram account in the early hours of Friday, 23 October 2026.

"We, the family of Francis Duru, regret to announce his passing following a brief illness," the statement read.

The family appeal for prayers, love and understanding as dem mourn the loss – Dem also thank fans and well-wishers for their prayers.

His death was also confirmed by the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Alhaji Abubakar Sanusi Yakubu, who break the news on social media.

Francis Duru na one of Nollywood's most familiar faces – Career span more than three decades – He gain widespread recognition for his role as Ahanna in Rattlesnake, the 1995 action film directed by the late Amaka Igwe.

Four months before his death, Duru dismiss reports say he dey battle life-threatening illness – After video show am looking frail – He describe those reports as false and malicious.

Now, tributes don begin pour in from across Nollywood – Colleagues, fans, family dey mourn one of the industry's pillars.

Burial arrangements go be announced by family later.

SHOWTV go update you as more details come.

Source: Family statement on Francis Duru verified Instagram – Oct 23 2026 – AGN President confirmation