Veteran Nollywood actor, Clarus of New Masquerade, Davis Ofor dies at 85

Veteran Nollywood actor, Davis Ofor, popularly known for his role as Clarus in the 1980s sitcom New Masquerade, has died at the age of 85.

The news of his passing was announced on Tuesday by fellow actor Tony Akposheri in a post shared on Instagram.

Akposheri expressed shock and sadness over the actor’s death, recalling their recent interaction during the New Year when they spent time together reflecting on life and discussing future plans.

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

“We crossed into the New Year together, laughing, talking, sharing memories, and speaking hopefully about the days ahead. We spoke about life, about plans, about how far we had come. None of us knew that time was already counting differently for you.”

Paying tribute to the late actor, Akposheri described Ofor as more than just a familiar face on television, noting that he was a warm and cheerful personality whose presence brightened every space.

“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.”

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

Ofor rose to prominence through his portrayal of Clarus in New Masquerade, one of Nigeria’s most popular television comedy shows. The programme aired on the Nigerian Television Authority and became a household favourite in the 1980s.

His comic performance and distinctive character made Clarus one of the most memorable figures in Nigerian television history, earning him national recognition and a lasting place in the country’s entertainment industry.

Details surrounding the cause of his death were not immediately available.