United States-based lawyer and astronaut, Owolabi Salis, has opened up on his emotional attempt to save the life of late Nollywood legend Kehinde Olusegun Akinremi, popularly known by his stage name Chief Karan. The thespian’s death, announced earlier this month, has continued to spark tributes across Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Astronaut Owolabi Salis, who is also known as “Oba Mekunu” (King of the Poor) for his humanitarian efforts, revealed that just weeks before Karan’s death, the veteran actor reached out to him for financial assistance to undergo an urgent medical operation.
According to Salis, on July 27, the actor sent him a desperate voice note disclosing he was suffering from acute appendicitis and needed ₦700,000 for surgery, but only required a balance of ₦350,000. Salis said he immediately wired the funds the same day.
“On July 28, Chief Karan sent me a heartfelt message of appreciation.
By August 1, he followed up with another note, thanking me again for the support,” Salis narrated.
“But just three days later, the shocking news of his death broke, and it left me devastated.”
Salis further disclosed that on August 18, he sent a monetary contribution towards Karan’s burial, describing his passing as “a tragic and irreplaceable loss.”
Beyond the grief, Salis urged Nollywood stakeholders, the Nigerian government, and well-meaning institutions to immortalise Chief Karan, whose career spanned over five decades.
He compared the late actor to icons like Hubert Ogunde, Duro Ladipo, and Oyin Adejobi, who laid the foundation for Nigerian theatre.
“Karan’s passing is not just the end of an era; it is a national cultural loss,” he said.
“His charisma, mastery, and flamboyant presence on stage and screen made him a colossus of Nigerian entertainment.”
Chief Karan, known for his epic portrayal of rulers and authority figures, earned his nickname from his iconic performance as Alaafin Kanran of Oyo.
However, despite his fame, his later years were marred by personal tragedies.
Salis recalled how the actor lost his properties to a devastating fire, became homeless, and suffered the deaths of his two wives within a short period.
“He endured unimaginable pain, yet still brought joy to millions through his craft,” Salis lamented.
Salis urged the Nigerian entertainment industry to create a stronger welfare system for aging actors, stressing that many veterans suffer neglect despite their immense contributions to cultural heritage.
“Chief Karan’s plight is a reminder that our legends must be celebrated and cared for in their lifetime, not only after their passing,” he added.
As preparations continue for his burial, tributes from colleagues and fans continue to pour in, highlighting the enduring influence of a man who defined an era in Nollywood storytelling.