Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru has dismissed as false and malicious a viral social media report claiming he is battling a terminal illness, insisting that the footage circulating online showing him in a frail state was fabricated and deliberately designed to spread panic and generate online traffic.
The rumours gained traction after a video clip of the 56-year-old actor looking visibly gaunt and weak spread widely across social media platforms, sparking concern among fans, colleagues and friends. In response, Duru took to his Instagram page on Friday, June 19, 2026, to address the speculation directly.
“My dear fans, greetings to you all. Thank you all for always being there for me with your prayers and your wishes,” Duru said in the video. “I’m making this video regarding a very wicked video circulating about me being sick to that very level, as you can see in the video. I have never been that sick and would never be that sick. And by God’s grace, I will keep being stronger and stronger.”
He condemned those behind the clip as “merchants of darkness and wickedness” who, he said, “sit and concoct negativity for people,” adding that they “just don’t want to see people rise or believe in people’s success, all in the course of driving traffic.”
Duru, who is also a public relations expert, expressed frustration over what he described as a growing misuse of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, to manipulate images and videos of public figures for malicious purposes. He stressed that such actions amount to intentional character distortion and warned that those involved would eventually face consequences.
“This is just to let you people know that this is me talking to you. Anything beyond this is their business. Thank you so much for your concern. I love you all,” he concluded.
Despite his denial, the video itself sparked renewed concern among fans, with many taking to the comment section to express worry over his physical appearance and sudden weight loss. One user wrote, “You’re looking so slim and sound weak, divine healing upon you sir.” Another said, “But you look sick or is it me? I pray God gives you healing in any area where you need it.”
However, Duru maintained that he has never been as ill as portrayed in the viral clip, urging the public to disregard the claims and focus only on verified information. He reiterated that he remains healthy and active, describing the entire episode as the handiwork of individuals seeking to distort public perception of him for personal gain.
The actor’s clarification followed weeks of speculation that had generated widespread anxiety among his fans and colleagues in the Nollywood industry. Several entertainment figures had reportedly reached out in concern, with some too afraid to call him directly due to the gravity of the rumours.
As of Saturday, June 20, the actor had not indicated whether he would take legal action against those responsible for the fabrication. However, his strong rebuttal has reassured many of his followers, even as questions about his appearance linger online.
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