Chief Kanran
Veteran Nollywood actor Chief Kanran, whose real name is Olusegun Akinremi, has passed away at the age of 70. He died on Friday, August 15, 2025, after a brief illness, according to movie executive and producer Seun Oloketuyi. Chief Kanran was a household name in the Yoruba film industry, renowned for his distinctive style, refined elegance, love for luxury, sharp humor, and commanding performances that lit up both stage plays and movies for decades.
Chief Kanran began his acting journey as a child, performing in stage dramas during Easter and Christmas seasons. He pursued formal training in the arts at the Centre for Cultural Studies, University of Lagos, and later earned a diploma in directing, acting, and film production from Obafemi Awolowo University. He was known for portraying authoritative characters, often playing kings, chiefs, or village elders in numerous Yoruba stage productions and films, including “Ewe Orun,” “Aiye,” “Efunsetan Aniwura,” “Agbarin,” and “Bata Wahala”.
Chief Kanran was a multiple award winner and had a successful career spanning over five decades, during which he mentored many and contributed immensely to Yoruba cinema. In recent years, he faced personal and financial challenges, including losing his home and valuable film equipment in a devastating fire in 2017. He revealed during a 2015 radio interview that he had been seeking financial assistance to secure accommodation.
Although the cause of his death is yet to be disclosed, Chief Kanran had been dealing with health issues, and his family has not made a formal announcement on burial activities. Chief Kanran’s death has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian entertainment industry, with tributes pouring in from colleagues and fans. He will be remembered for his contributions to Nigerian theatre, television, and cinema, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors.
