The Nigerian movie industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran Nollywood actor, Olusegun Akinremi, widely known by his stage name Chief Kanran.
The thespian, who was one of the most prominent figures in the Yoruba film industry, reportedly passed away on Friday morning at the age of 70.
The sad news was confirmed by movie producer, Seun Oloketuyi, who took to Instagram to break the news to fans and colleagues.
“Popular actor Segun Remi popularly known as Chief Kanran died Friday morning,” he wrote.
A Career That Shaped Yoruba Cinema
Chief Kanran’s journey into acting began decades ago, during the golden era of Yoruba theatre, where he first cut his teeth as a stage performer. He rose to prominence for his expressive delivery, comedic timing, and ability to embody both dramatic and humorous roles with ease.
He became a regular face in television drama series and later transitioned fully into Nollywood, featuring in numerous Yoruba movies that cemented his place as one of the industry’s most respected veterans.
Chief Kanran was particularly admired for his unique acting style, charm, and sharp sense of humour, qualities that made him a favourite among audiences across generations. Over the years, he worked alongside other legends in the Yoruba film circuit, building a reputation as one of the pillars of indigenous Nigerian storytelling.
An Irreplaceable Loss
For many fans and colleagues, his passing marks the end of an era. Already, tributes have begun pouring in across social media, with actors and admirers alike celebrating his life and legacy.
Beyond the screen, Chief Kanran was remembered as a mentor and a source of inspiration to younger actors who looked up to him as a symbol of dedication to the craft.
Though gone, his remarkable contributions to the Yoruba movie industry will never be forgotten. His works remain a rich archive of cultural expression that will continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers and actors.
