Popular Nigerian film actor Emmanuel France has been confirmed dead, as announced by his colleague Femi Ogedengbe on Instagram on Monday.
France, believed to be in his 80s, was celebrated for his performances in films such as Cross My Sin, She Is My Sister, and The Director. Ogedengbe paid tribute to the late actor, writing, “Rest in peace to one of Nollywood’s legends, Uncle Emmanuel France. We shot three movies together in Tanzania in 2006: Cross My Sin, She Is My Sister, and The Director.”
As of the time of this report, the cause of France’s death remains unknown. His passing has left fans and colleagues in shock and mourning, especially as it comes just days after the death of another Nollywood actor, known as Big Larry.
The passing of Big Larry was reported on Friday by film producer Stanley Nwoke, who shared the news in an Instagram post, stating, “Nollywood actor Big Larry just passed away. Rest in peace, Big Larry. Nollywood Asaba mourns.” The cause of his death has yet to be confirmed.
The Nigerian film industry has faced a string of recent losses, including notable actors such as Mr. Ibu, Amaechi Muonagor, Junior Pope, Sisi Quadri, and Ganiyu ‘Ogunjimi’ Oyeyemi. Others who have passed include Olofa Ina, Adejumoke Aderounmu, Saratu Gidado, Reginald Ebere, Ethel Ekpe, and Onyeka Onwenu.
In response to these tragic losses, the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) held a four-day fasting and prayer session in May, led by Jerry Eze, founder of Streams of Joy International, seeking divine intervention against further deaths in Nollywood.
