Nollywood veteran Segun Remi, popularly known by his stage name Chief Kanran, has passed away.
According to online reports, the legendary actor died on the morning of Friday, August 15, 2025.
The news of his demise was confirmed by filmmaker Seun Oloketuyi via a post on his Instagram page.
As of the time of this report, the cause of his death has not been disclosed.
Chief Kanran, who was also a seasoned movie director, began his journey in theatre during childhood, performing in dramas staged during Easter and Christmas celebrations. He later enrolled at the Centre for Cultural Studies (now the Department of Creative Arts) at the University of Lagos, before proceeding to Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), where he earned a diploma in directing, acting, and film production.
After his studies, he hosted a television programme on MTV in Lagos before fully venturing into filmmaking. Known for his frequent portrayal of wealthy men in movies, Kanran began acting professionally in 1975, debuting as Kurunmi in the play of the same title written by Prof. Ola Rotimi. He went on to feature in several episodes of Mirror in the Sun, marking his gradual shift from stage to screen, and played a businessman in the soap opera Images.
His major breakthrough came on stage when he performed in Langbodo, Nigeria’s official drama entry for Festac ’77 at the National Arts Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos. On television, he famously portrayed Alaafin Kanran in a drama aired on Lagos Television on October 1, 1988.
Just a day ago, actress Jayeola Monje, popularly known as Jaiye Kuti, mourned the passing of her colleague, Seun Confirm. She disclosed that the upcoming actor and filmmaker died from Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) — an age-related enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause difficulty in urination. Expressing her grief, Jaiye described his untimely death as deeply painful and prayed for God to comfort his family.
Earlier this month, the death of actor Odunayo Olufemi, widely known as Oloto, was also announced. According to fellow actor Kunle Afod, Oloto had attended church but felt unwell. He reportedly went to a hospital across from the church to complain to the receptionist, where he tragically passed away.
Actress Regina Chukwu also paid tribute to Oloto, describing him as her boss and a genuine mentor. She expressed gratitude for his guidance and support in her career, while praying for his soul to rest in peace.