Parting performance: Chief Kanran’s final role in film, life revealed
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The Nigerian film industry is mourning the loss of one of its revered veterans, Olusegun Akinremi, famously known as Chief Kanran, who passed away in Lagos after a brief illness, just days before his 70th birthday.
The Nigerian film industry is mourning the loss of one of its revered veterans, Olusegun Akinremi, famously known as Chief Kanran, who passed away in Lagos after a brief illness, just days before his 70th birthday.
What makes his passing even more poignant is the role he played in what would be his final film appearance — Seven Doors, an upcoming production by actor and filmmaker Femi Adebayo.
In an emotional tribute, Adebayo shared that he was deeply moved by the timing and symbolism of Kanran’s last performance.
“He played in Seven Doors, and now it feels like life mirrored art,” Adebayo wrote. “It’s painful and shocking. Nobody thought it would be his last act.”
Crew members from the set described Kanran’s performance as powerful and deeply committed, despite the visible toll his health was taking. One crew member remarked:
“He gave everything to that role, as if he knew it was his final performance.”
Known for his rich voice, dramatic presence, and versatility, Chief Kanran had a career that spanned decades, particularly within the Yoruba theatre scene. He remained a beloved figure, respected not only for his talent but also for his resilience and discipline on set.
Seven Doors is said to explore themes of transition and thresholds — themes that now feel especially significant in light of his passing. For many, the film’s title has become a symbolic farewell for a man who gave his all to the art of storytelling.
“Chief Kanran may have walked through the last door,” Adebayo concluded, “but his voice and artistry will never be silenced.”
Friends, colleagues, and fans across Nollywood have been reflecting on his legacy, honoring his unwavering dedication to the craft and the enduring impact of his body of work.
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