BREAKING: VETERAN ‘NEW MASQUERADE’ ACTOR DAVIS OFFOR, FAMED AS CLARUS, IS DEAD

The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran actor Reverend Davis Offor, who was widely celebrated for his iconic role as Clarus Mgbeojikwe in the legendary television sitcom, ‘The New Masquerade.’ He was 85 years old.

According to multiple reports on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, Offor passed away on Monday, April 6, which coincided with Easter Sunday . His death comes just weeks before his 85th birthday, which the Abia State Government was reportedly planning to celebrate .

The news of his passing was confirmed by his colleague and fellow cast member, Tony Akposheri, who played the character Zaki in the beloved show. In an emotional tribute shared on social media, an inconsolable Akposheri expressed deep grief over the loss of his friend and brother.

“Today, my heart is heavy. Davis Offor, fondly known as our own Clarus from New Masquerade, is gone,” Akposheri wrote . He recalled their last meeting at the turn of the year, unaware it would be their final moment together. “We crossed into the New Year together, laughing, talking, sharing memories, and speaking hopefully about the days ahead. None of us knew that time was already counting differently for you,” he added .

The veteran actor described Offor as more than just a colleague. “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. Knowing you personally was a gift I will always be grateful for,” Akposheri stated . He lamented the finality of the loss, adding, “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” .

Sources indicate that the veteran actor had been battling prostate cancer and was undergoing medical treatment at the time of his death . In his later years, he also suffered from blindness due to glaucoma and had largely stepped away from acting to devote his time to ministry, serving in the Aetherius Church .

Reverend Davis Offor rose to prominence as the witty and mischievous houseboy ‘Clarus’ in ‘The New Masquerade,’ a show that aired on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) from the 1980s into the mid-1990s . Alongside characters like Chief Zebrudaya (Chika Okpala) and Gringory (James Iroha), Clarus became a household name, bringing laughter and social commentary to millions of Nigerian homes . His portrayal of Clarus—known for his comic wit and distinct delivery—remains etched in the memories of fans across generations.

His death marks the loss of yet another cornerstone of Nigeria’s golden era of television. Following the recent passing of Romanus Amuta (Natty) in February, the ranks of the original ‘New Masquerade’ cast are depleting rapidly. Currently, only Lizzy Evoeme (Ovuleria), Chika Okpala (Zebrudaya), and Tony Akposheri (Zakky) are believed to be surviving members of the iconic ensemble .

As of press time, funeral arrangements have not been announced by his family. He is survived by his loved ones and a legacy that shaped Nigerian comedy . Fans and colleagues continue to pour out tributes, remembering the legend who gave them a lifetime of joy.