Renowned Nollywood veteran, Olusegun Akinremi, popularly known as Chief Kanran, has passed away at the age of 70.
The news was confirmed on Friday by movie executive and producer, Seun Oloketuyi, in an Instagram post announcing that the celebrated actor died earlier in the day.
Chief Kanran, a household name in the Yoruba film industry, was widely admired for his refined elegance, sharp wit, love for luxury, and commanding on-screen presence. His career spanned decades, lighting up stage productions, television dramas, and blockbuster Yoruba films such as Ewe Orun, Aiye, Efunsetan Aniwura, Agbarin, and Bata Wahala. He often portrayed authoritative roles — kings, chiefs, and village elders — with remarkable authenticity.
In 2020, Kanran stepped away from active film-making, citing internal politics and professional disputes within the industry. “There is politics everywhere and different cliques, even in our profession. Some people see me as a threat because I won’t compromise on professionalism,” he said in an interview at the time.
Kanran began his career on stage before rising to prominence through a popular NTA drama series, later becoming a leading figure in Yoruba cinema.
The cause of his death has not been disclosed, and his family is yet to release details of funeral arrangements.
His passing adds to a string of recent losses in Nollywood, sparking renewed discussions about the welfare and healthcare of ageing actors, many of whom face financial challenges after decades in the industry.
