Adebayo Adenrele
Veteran Nollywood actor, Emmanuel France has died at the age of 84.
His colleague, filmmaker Olufemi Ogedengbe, shared the news on Instagram, paying tribute to France and noting their collaborations on films such as “Cross My Sin,” “She Is My Sister,” and “The Director.”
At the press time of filing this report, the cause of death has not been disclosed.
France was recognized for his roles in films like “Domitilla” (1996) and “The Curfew” (2021).
Originally from Kano State, Nigeria, he began his Nollywood career in the 1980s and gained fame for his portrayal of witch doctors in movies.
His other notable works include “Oganigwe,” “Narrow Escape,” “Witches,” “Silent Night,” and “Exile.” He was well-known for his catchphrase “Tufancha” from the film “Suicide Mission.”
Before his death, he described himself in a 2011 interview as a “Gold Coastian” with Nigerian citizenship, reflecting his complex heritage.
France began his career in Ghana, where he studied journalism, wrote stage plays, and worked with the Ghana Film Corporation.
He later returned to Nigeria, where he continued his career, acting in over 373 films and television productions.