Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
The death of the celebrated actor was announced on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, by his family. His son, Olusoji Jacobs, shared the announcement, describing the late actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and reflecting on his life as one that was well lived.
The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn the veteran actor.
Born on July 11, 1942, Olu Jacobs built a career spanning more than five decades across theatre, television and film. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before establishing himself through stage and screen productions in Britain and later Nigeria.
His international career included appearances in British television productions and work with major organisations in theatre and film. He later became one of the most recognisable actors in Nigeria’s film industry, popularly known as Nollywood.
Jacobs appeared in hundreds of Nigerian productions during his career, earning widespread recognition for his commanding screen presence and versatility. His performances in films and television productions helped establish him as one of the prominent figures of the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Beyond acting, Jacobs played an important role in the development of the performing arts. He and his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, co-founded the Lufodo Group, which became involved in production, distribution and professional training. They also established the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts to help train emerging performers.
His contribution to the industry earned him several major honours. Jacobs won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007 and later received other industry and lifetime achievement recognitions.
In 2011, he was also conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in recognition of his contribution to Nigeria’s film industry.
Jacobs was married to Joke Silva, with whom he shared both a family life and a long professional partnership. The couple became one of the most recognised partnerships in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
In his later years, Jacobs largely stayed away from the public spotlight. His wife disclosed in 2021 that he was living with Lewy body dementia, a condition that contributed to his reduced public appearances.
Despite his absence from the screen in recent years, Jacobs remained highly respected by colleagues, fans and younger generations of Nigerian actors.
His death marks the end of a remarkable career that connected British theatre, international productions and the growth of Nollywood. Through his performances, professional work and contribution to arts education, he left a lasting imprint on Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Olu Jacobs is survived by his wife, Joke Silva, their children and grandchildren.
His family has asked the public to allow them privacy as they mourn the veteran actor and celebrate his life and legacy.
Source: Thepressradio.com
