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10 things you never knew about late Nollywood veteran, Francis Duru

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3 minutes ago

October 23, 2026

Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru, who died on Friday, October 23, 2026, at the age of 57 following a brief illness, was one of the familiar faces in Nigeria’s movie industry.

From his breakthrough role in Rattlesnake to his award-winning performances and humanitarian activities, Duru built a career that spanned more than three decades.

Here are 10 important things to know about the late actor.

1. He was born in Cameroon to Nigerian parents

Francis Ogide Duru was born on July 27, 1969, in Cameroon to Nigerian parents from Imo State, southeastern Nigeria.

Although he spent his early years in Cameroon, he later moved to Nigeria to pursue his university education and acting career.

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

Duru attended primary and secondary schools in Cameroon before gaining admission to the University of Port Harcourt in Rivers State.

He studied Theatre Arts and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1996, laying the foundation for his career in the entertainment industry.

3. He began his acting career in 1989

Duru made his debut in Nollywood in 1989 with the movie Missing Mark, directed by the late filmmaker Ndubuisi Oko.

Although the film did not immediately bring him widespread recognition, it marked the beginning of his journey in the Nigerian movie industry.

4. His breakthrough came through the movie ‘rattlesnake’

The actor became widely known in 1995 after featuring in Rattlesnake, an action-comedy film produced by the late filmmaker Amaka Igwe.

His portrayal of Ahanna helped establish his reputation and opened doors to more opportunities in Nollywood.

5. He featured in several popular movies

Throughout his career, Duru appeared in numerous Nigerian films across different genres.

Some of his notable works include Blood Money, Narrow Escape, Home in Exile, Stigma, Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons, The Good Husband, Blood Vessel, Abigail’s Memoir and Ugly Bird.

His filmography reflected his versatility and ability to play different characters on screen.

6. He received the United Nations Ambassador of Peace Award

In 2007, Duru received the United Nations Ambassador of Peace award in recognition of his positive influence on young people.

The honour highlighted his impact beyond acting and his contribution to promoting positive values among youths.

7. He served as interim president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria

In 2010, Duru was appointed interim president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), the professional association representing actors in the country.

His appointment reflected his standing within the entertainment industry and his involvement in the affairs of fellow actors.

8. He won a Best of Nollywood Award

Duru earned further recognition in 2020 when he won the Best Actor in a Leading Role – Igbo category at the Best of Nollywood Awards for his performance in Mboputa.

He was also nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards in 2010.

9. He was involved in humanitarian activities

Away from the movie industry, Duru worked with local and international organisations to support efforts aimed at improving children’s education and living conditions across Africa.

Organisations associated with his humanitarian work included UNICEF, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), LEAP Africa and COMPASS.

10. He was married with four children

Duru married his wife, Adokiye, in 2003, and their union produced four children. The couple also shared a connection to the University of Port Harcourt, where they both studied.

The actor died on October 23, 2026, at the age of 57 after a brief illness.

His death was confirmed by the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Abubakar Sanusi Yakubu, and through a statement on his verified Instagram account.

Duru leaves behind a legacy of memorable film performances, industry service, awards and humanitarian contributions spanning more than 30 years.

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Pearl Effiong

Pearl Essien is a digital content creator and a graduate of the prestigious University of Calabar. With over four years of experience in writing, she specializes in crafting engaging stories that inform and inspire readers. Outside of her work, Pearl enjoys storytelling, reading, and playing table tennis, bringing the same curiosity and passion to her hobbies as she does to her writing.