Veteran Nollywood Actor Chief Kanran Dies at 75
Nollywood has been thrown into fresh mourning after reports confirmed the death of veteran actor Segun Remi, popularly known as Chief Kanran. The respected actor died on Friday morning, August 15th, 2025, according to information shared online by filmmaker Seun Oloketuyi. The news of his passing has shocked many Nigerians, as the cause of his death has not yet been made public.
Chief Kanran was one of the most iconic figures in the Nigerian film industry. He started his theatre journey as a child, taking part in stage plays that were regularly performed during Easter and Christmas celebrations. He studied at the Centre for Cultural Studies (now Creative Arts Department) at the University of Lagos before moving on to Obafemi Awolowo University, where he obtained a diploma in directing, acting and film production.
After school, he hosted a television programme on MTV in Lagos and later went fully into filmmaking. Known for playing wealthy men in movies, Chief Kanran started acting professionally in 1975 and enjoyed a career that lasted several decades. One of his early major roles was playing Kurunmi in a stage adaptation of the play written by Professor Ola Rotimi. He later featured in popular TV productions including “Mirror in the Sun”.
His breakthrough on stage came when he acted in “Langbodo,” Nigeria’s drama entry at Festac ’77, performed at the National Arts Theatre in Lagos. He also earned wider TV recognition through his portrayal of Alaafin Kanran in a drama broadcast on Lagos Television in October 1988.
Chief Kanran’s death has added to an already difficult period for the Nollywood industry, which has recently lost several actors. Just a day earlier, actress Jayeola Monje mourned the death of Seun Confirm, who reportedly died from a prostate-related illness. She expressed deep sadness over his passing and prayed for God to comfort his family.
Earlier this month, actor Odunayo Olufemi (Oloto) was also confirmed dead after collapsing in a hospital. The news of his death caused widespread sorrow in the acting community, with many of his colleagues speaking about his kindness and impact on their careers.
On the same day Oloto’s death was announced, Yoruba Nollywood was hit with yet another tragedy with the death of upcoming actress Omotola Odunsi. In June, the industry also lost veteran film producer Kayode Peters in Canada and Berry White, who reportedly collapsed in her home.
The passing of Chief Kanran is a painful reminder of the difficult period Nollywood is experiencing. Fans and colleagues continue to pay tribute to the late actor, remembering his legacy and praying for his family.
