JUST IN: VETERAN NOLLYWOOD ACTOR CHIEF KANRAN DIES AT 70
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By: Sefiu Ajape
Veteran Nollywood star Olusegun Akinremi, fondly called Chief Kanran, has passed away at the age of 70.
The news was confirmed by movie executive and producer Seun Oloketuyi in an Instagram post on Friday, revealing that the actor died earlier in the day.
He wrote, “Popular actor Segun Remi popularly known as Chief Kanran died Friday morning. Details soon.”
Chief Kanran was a beloved figure in the Yoruba film industry, celebrated for his unique style, refined elegance, love for luxury, sharp wit, and powerful performances that lit up both stage and screen for decades.
Back in 2020, he opened up about his struggles and decision to step back from the industry.
“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 said.
Starting his career on stage, Kanran transitioned into television and film, featuring in numerous Yoruba productions.
He gained national recognition through a popular NTA drama series before going on to star in notable movies such as Ewe Orun, Aiye, Efunsetan Aniwura, Agbarin, and Bata Wahala.
Renowned for often playing authoritative or wealthy roles—frequently as a king, chief, or elder—Kanran’s professional acting journey began in 1975.
He took the title role in Kurunmi, a play by Prof. Ola Rotimi, and appeared in several episodes of Mirror in the Sun, marking his successful shift from stage to television. He also portrayed a businessman in the soap opera Images.
One of his career highlights was Langbodo, Nigeria’s drama entry for Festac ’77, performed at the National Arts Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos. On television, he became widely remembered for his portrayal of Alaafin Kanran in a drama aired on Lagos Television on October 1, 1988.
As of the time of this report, the cause of his death has not been disclosed, and the family is yet to release a formal statement regarding burial arrangements.
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