Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru, best known for his role as Ahanna in the 1995 classic Rattlesnake, has died at the age of 57.
Duru’s family announced his death in the early hours of Friday, October 23, 2026, through a statement posted on his official Instagram page.
The family said the actor died following a brief illness but did not disclose the nature of the illness. 
“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.”
The death was also confirmed by the Actors Guild of Nigeria, with its president, Abubakar Sanusi Yakubu, paying tribute to the veteran actor.
Duru was born on July 27, 1969, in Cameroon to Nigerian parents from Imo State. He later moved to Nigeria and studied Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt, graduating in 1996. He began his acting career in 1989.
He rose to prominence after portraying Ahanna in Amaka Igwe’s Rattlesnake, a role that became one of his most recognised performances. He subsequently featured in numerous Nollywood productions and remained active in the industry for more than three decades.
His death comes months after he dismissed reports that he was battling a life-threatening illness. In June, a video showing the actor looking frail had circulated on social media, prompting concern among fans and colleagues. Duru subsequently described the reports as false and the footage as “fabricated and malicious.”
Duru had also suffered a major personal loss in 2024 when his 15-year-old son, Ifeanyi, died after an undisclosed illness. The actor had described his son as his “champ” and “lion” in a tribute following his death.
Duru is survived by his wife, Adokiye, and their children.
