Veteran Nollywood actor Duro Michael has died after a prolonged illness that left him bedridden, according to announcements from industry colleagues. Sources say he passed away a few days ago, though the exact date of death has not been confirmed. The news was shared by producer Stanleyontop, who revealed that Michael had been battling a terminal illness. 

Michael is reported to have developed complications from diabetes. Over time, that illness worsened and led to the amputation of one of his legs. Before his death he made public appeals for financial aid to help with medical expenses and to acquire a prosthetic limb. 

Fans, Colleagues Mourn His Death

The actor had largely stepped away from acting in recent years due to his deteriorating health. Despite this, he remained visible to the public through pleas for work and support. In 2024 he appealed to producers not to abandon him, expressing his desire to continue acting if given roles. 

Celebrities and fans flooded social media with tributes following the announcement. Many mourners lamented what they see as a pattern of ill Nigerian actors being left unsupported during serious illness. Stanleyontop, in his post, criticized the lack of solidarity in Nollywood and said “No synergy” in how the industry supports its own. 

Earlier friends and well-wishers had rallied to assist Michael. In 2022 Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin donated ₦5 million toward his treatment. The support was welcomed but his condition continued to decline. 

Michael’s death has put another spotlight on health issues among veteran actors in Nigeria. As fans share memories of his roles in films such as Issakaba, Ukwa, Tears and Sorrows, Nothing for Nothing, and others, many are calling for better institutional support for actors in precarious health.