Nollywood Mourns Veteran Actor Chief Kanran After His Death

Veteran Nollywood actor Olusegun Akinremi, popularly known as Chief Kanran, has died at the age of 70.

The news was shared on Friday by film executive and producer Seun Oloketuyi through an Instagram post, confirming that the actor died earlier in the day.

Oloketuyi wrote, “Popular actor Segun Remi popularly known as Chief Kanran died Friday morning. Details soon.”

Chief Kanran was a respected figure in the Yoruba film industry, celebrated for his unique style, sharp wit, elegance, and powerful performances that captivated audiences on both stage and screen for decades.

In a 2020 interview, the late actor opened up about the challenges he faced in the industry and why he stepped back from acting.

He explained that cliques and politics in the profession made it difficult for him, as some colleagues viewed his insistence on professionalism as a threat.

“I stepped aside from film-making because of some reasons. There is politics everywhere and different cliques as well, even in our profession.

“Some people in the industry see people like me as a threat because I will not do anything that is not professional and that has made some people to be upset with me,” he was quoted to have said

Kanran began his career on stage before moving into television and film. He gained early recognition through Yoruba stage plays and as part of a popular NTA drama series.

His reputation grew with his performances in Yoruba films, where he was often cast as chiefs, kings, or elders.

Some of his most notable works include Ewe Orun, Aiye, Efunsetan Aniwura, Agbarin, and Bata Wahala.

Known for often portraying wealthy or authoritative characters, he started his professional journey in 1975 and went on to deliver iconic performances in productions such as Ola Rotimi’s Kurunmi and the soap opera Images.

He also appeared in Mirror in the Sun and played a significant role in Langbodo, Nigeria’s official drama entry at Festac ’77, staged at the National Arts Theatre, Lagos.

On television, Chief Kanran memorably portrayed Alaafin Kanran, which aired on Lagos Television on October 1, 1988.

As of now, the cause of his death has not been made public, and his family is yet to release a statement regarding funeral arrangements.

KanyiDaily recalls that Nollywood actress Omotola Odunsi recently died, leaving fans and colleagues in shock.