Nollywood veteran actor, Segun Remi, popularly known as Chief Kanran, has died.

The People’s Gazette confirmed his passing through Bolaji Amusan, popularly known as Mr Latin, president of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN).

Amusan confirmed that the thespian passed away on Friday morning, noting that the cause of his death remains undisclosed and further details are yet to emerge.

He described the late veteran as “an active and complete entertainer” who will be deeply missed by the industry.

Chief Kanran’s career spanned decades, marked by memorable stage and television performances in the Nollywood setting, where he established himself as a household name, particularly in Yoruba Cinema, often portraying the role of a wealthy individual.

His breakthrough came as Kurunmi in Ola Rotimi’s play, followed by his iconic role as Aláàfin Kanran in a Lagos Television drama in 1988 and other numerous popular NTA drama series.

He also starred in the TV soap Megafortune as General Philips, and featured in numerous Yoruba films including Vigilante, Ose-Sango, Eri Okan, Itunnu, Eewo, Orire, Ajaka Oko, Great Bird of Eternity, Shattered Bridge, Oba Oluaiye, Bibi Ire, and Ilu Le.

Despite his success, he faced major setbacks, including three fires, the last in 2020, that destroyed his home, car, studio, and equipment, leaving him struggling and living in a church for a while.

Tributes to the icon span across the industry, and with entertainment blogs, as fans and colleagues expressed profound grief for the loss of a legend, with many simply saying, “May his soul rest in peace.”

The late actor joins a list of both young and veteran Nollywood stars who have passed away this year, including Kayode Peters, Pat Ugwu, Omotola Odunsi, Columbus Irosanga, Nkechi Nweje, and Asa Koko.