Veteran actor Chief Kanran bows out after final role in ‘Seven Doors’

Nollywood is mourning the passing of veteran actor, Olusegun Akinremi, popularly known as Chief Kanran, who died in a Lagos hospital on Friday after a brief illness, just days before his 70th birthday.

His death has taken on a poignant dimension as his final appearance was in Femi Adebayo’s yet-to-be-released film, Seven Doors. The movie, which explores themes of thresholds and transitions, has now been seen by many as a symbolic metaphor for Kanran’s departure from the world.

In an emotional tribute, Adebayo expressed shock at the coincidence, saying, “He played in Seven Doors, and now it feels like life mirrored art. It’s painful and shocking. Nobody thought it would be his last act.”

Crew members revealed that despite battling health challenges, Chief Kanran brought his trademark passion and energy to the role. “He gave everything to that performance, as if he knew it was his final one,” a crew member said.

Kanran, who began his career in Yoruba theatre, was celebrated for his powerful voice, versatility, and unwavering dedication to the craft. His decades-long career made him a household name, especially within Yoruba film and stage productions.

Colleagues and fans have described his passing as the end of an era, with Adebayo noting that although Kanran may have walked “through the last door,” his artistry would remain alive.

Tributes continue to pour in across Nollywood, as the industry reflects on his enduring legacy and his commitment to performance until his final days.