Emmanuel France, the veteran Nigerian actor, has passed away.
France’s death was confirmed by Femi Ogedengbe, the Nigerian filmmaker, via his Instagram page.
Ogedengbe, who worked with France on several projects, including the 2006 films ‘Cross My Sin’, ‘She Is My Sister’, and ‘The Director’, which were shot in Tanzania, described the actor as a “legend”.
He recalled their fond memories together and expressed sadness over his demise.
“Rest in peace to one of Nollywood’s legends, Uncle Emmanuel France,” he wrote.
“One of the actors I took to Tanzania in 2006. We shot three movies together: Cross My Sin, She Is My Sister, and The Director. R.I.P.”
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While the exact cause of France’s death remained undisclosed, he was believed to be in his 80s.
The movie star’s passing has left fans and colleagues in shock and grief.
Born in Ghana, France was a talented actor known for his gentlemanly demeanor and respect for others.
He left a lasting impact through his numerous film roles. Before his passing, France had aspirations to venture into film production.
One of his final projects was a film he hoped to produce titled ‘Ghana Must Go’. His talent earned him numerous accolades throughout his career.
France’s demise came almost at the same time when Big Larry, the Nollywood actor, passed away.
Since January 2024, Nollywood has lost dozens of practitioners including Mr Ibu, Amaechi Muonagor, Junior Pope, Sisi Quadri, and Ganiyu ‘Ogunjimi‘ Oyeyemi.
Others who lost their lives include Olofa Ina, Adejumoke Aderounmu, Saratu Gidado, Reginald Ebere, Ethel Ekpe and Onyeka Onwenu.
In May, the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) announced a four-day fasting and prayer session with Jerry Eze, the Streams of Joy International founder, against deaths in Nollywood.
Rollas said “actors cannot continue to die like chickens,” adding that prayers were needed to avert more deaths in the industry.
He urged Nollywood actors and their supporters to join the programme to “deal with this ugly reproach”.
The prayer session held at the M & M Center in Garki, Abuja from May 2 to 5.
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