Nollywood actors have mourned Francis Duru following the death of the veteran actor at the age of 57 after a brief illness on Friday.
Colleagues described Duru as a talented performer whose work made a lasting contribution to Nigeria’s film industry.
His death comes two years after he lost his 15-year-old son, Ifeanyi.
Actor Kanayo O. Kanayo paid tribute to Duru in a post on Instagram. He described him as a complete actor and one of Nigeria’s most versatile and prolific performers.
“A consummate actor has left the stage,” Kanayo wrote. He also expressed his grief over the loss of his colleague and wished him eternal rest.
Actress Kate Henshaw also mourned Duru. In her tribute, she reflected on the brevity of life and prayed for his soul to rest in peace. She also asked God to comfort his family as they come to terms with the loss.
Meanwhile, actress Mercy Johnson-Okojie said she was struggling to find words to express her feelings.
“Too tired and speechless about this loss,” she wrote.
Actress Stephanie Linus described the death as tragic and heartbreaking. She also prayed for strength for Duru’s family during the period of mourning.
“May God grant his family the strength and fortitude to bear this loss,” Linus wrote in her tribute.
Francis Duru was known for his work in Nollywood, where he built a career as a film actor. News of his death has prompted tributes from colleagues who remembered his talent and contributions to the industry. The actor’s death has also renewed attention on the personal loss he experienced in 2024, when his teenage son died.
As colleagues and fans mourn Francis Duru, tributes continue to reflect the impact he had on people who worked with him in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
