Clarus, veteran Nollywood actor, dies at 85

 

 By Nehru Odeh

 

Veteran Nollywood actor, Davis Ofor, popularly known as Clarus, who thrilled Nigerians with his comic acts in the 1980s sitcom, New Masquerade, is dead.

Tony Akposheri, a fellow actor, announced his passing on Tuesday via several social media platforms.

Akposheri expressed shock and sadness over the death of the actor, whom he described as a friend and brother.

He recalled their earlier interactions, revealing that they had recently spent time together during the New Year, sharing memories and discussing plans.

“Today, my heart is heavy. Davis Ofor, fondly known as Clarus from New Masquerade, is gone.

“We crossed into the New Year together, laughing, talking, sharing memories, and speaking hopefully about the days ahead,” he wrote.

“We spoke about life, about plans, about how far we had come. None of us knew that time was already counting differently for you.”

Akposheri described the late actor as more than just a screen personality, as he paid tribute to his character and impact.

“You were more than a familiar face on screen. You were a friend, a brother, a man with warmth, humour, and a presence that could light up any space,” he wrote.

“It is hard to believe that the voice I heard not long ago is now a memory. Hard to accept that someone so full of life can suddenly become a story we tell.”

“Rest well, my friend. You came, you gave joy, you made your mark, and you will never be forgotten,” he added.

Clarus shot to the limelight in the 198os when he acted alongside actors such as Chika Okpala (Chief Zebrudaya) and Chief James Itoha (Gringory) in New Masquerade, one of Nigeria’s most popular sitcoms, where his character became a household name.

His portrayal of the comic character earned him national recognition and endeared him to audiences across the country, making Clarus one of the most memorable figures in Nigerian television history.

New Masquerade was a widely acclaimed Nigerian television comedy that aired on the Nigerian Television Authority and became a household favourite in the 1980s.