Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru has refuted widespread rumors about his health, labeling a viral video that claimed he was critically ill as fabricated, malicious, and the work of “merchants of darkness.
The 56-year-old actor addressed the situation in an Instagram video after footage showing him in a frail condition began circulating on social media, causing alarm among fans, friends, and colleagues. Duru categorically denied battling any life-threatening illness, stating, I have never been that sick and will never be that sick. By God’s grace, we keep being stronger and stronger.
He condemned those responsible for spreading the false video, accusing them of intentionally creating negative content to generate online traffic.
That video is the handiwork of merchants of darkness people who sit and concoct negativity for others. You just don’t want to see people rise or believe in people’s success, all in the name of driving traffic, Duru said.
The actor also expressed concern over the increasing use of manipulated content and potential artificial intelligence tools to mislead the public and tarnish reputations.
If this is what social media or AI is all about, then we are in big trouble indeed, he remarked.
Duru noted that the rumors had unsettled many friends and acquaintances, prompting calls from those seeking confirmation about his wellbeing.
He urged the public to disregard any reports suggesting he was seriously ill, emphasizing that the video was not an accurate representation of his health. This is just to let you guys know that this is me talking to you. Anything beyond this is their business, he explained.
He added that he chose to release the video to reassure those who had been alarmed by the false reports. “To my friends who have been embarrassed or scared to call, and those who just called to check if it’s true—well, this is me, Duru said.
Francis Duru, who married his wife Adokiye in 2003, tragically lost his son Ifeanyi in August 2024.
