CITIZENS COMPASS— One of the popular faces in the Nollywood sector, Segun Remi, popularly known as Chief Kanran, is dead.
The Nollywood actor died on Friday, at the age of 72.
He recently granted an online interview where he told his fans about how far life has treated him.
A film producer, Seun Oloketuyi, broke the news of Chief Kanran’s death in an Instagram post.
The cause of his death has not been disclosed as tributes have been pouring in from his colleagues and fans.
Popular actor, Yemi Solade, who shared a throwback video with Chief Kanran and actress Jayeola Kuti, wrote in disbelief: “I am yet to believe he is no more.”
Chief Kanran’s career spanned over five decades, beginning in the 1970s with stage plays such as Kurunmi by Ola Rotimi, and later, Langbodo — Nigeria’s official entry for FESTAC’77. He became a household name in 1988 after his memorable role as Alaafin Kanran in a Lagos Television drama, a performance that earned him the nickname he carried for life.
Over the years, he graced countless Yoruba-language films, including Vigilante, Ose-Sango, Eri Okan, Itunnu, Eewo, Idunnu, Orire, Ofa Oro, Ajaka Oko, Ayanmo, Great Bird of Eternity, Shattered Bridge, Oba Oluaiye, Bibi Ire, Ilu le, and I50 Million. He was best known for portraying wealthy or authoritative figures, a signature style that became his acting trademark.
Beyond acting, Chief Kanran also directed films and was outspoken about the challenges faced by veteran actors in Nollywood. He once revealed that his office and production equipment were destroyed by fire on three separate occasions.
In his later years, he became a vocal advocate for the welfare of older Nollywood stars, calling out the neglect many of them endured after years of service to the industry.
