Olu Jacobs Dies at 84: Nollywood Loses One of Its Most Enduring Icons
Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at 84, closing the curtain on a career that stretched from British television and theatre to the heart of Nollywood.
His family announced his death on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, with his son, Olusoji Jacobs, sharing the statement on behalf of the family.
“It is with gratitude to God for a life well lived and fought that we announce the passing of our dear husband, father, grandfather and uncle. The Lion of Lufodo,” the family said.
The statement identified him as Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs (MFR), 11/07/1942 – 16/09/2026. The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy during the mourning period.
From Kano to the world stage
Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs developed an interest in acting before travelling to Britain, where he trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA).
He subsequently built a career in British theatre and television, appearing in productions including The Goodies, The Professionals, Till Death Us Do Part and other television and stage productions before establishing himself as a major Nigerian screen actor.
A defining face of Nollywood
Jacobs became one of the most recognisable faces of Nigerian cinema, appearing in numerous films and playing characters ranging from traditional rulers and political figures to fathers, businessmen and authority figures.
His career earned him major recognition, including the 2007 Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role, the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards Industry Merit Award and a 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award.
In 2011, the Nigerian government conferred on him the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
Marriage to Joke Silva
Jacobs was married to fellow veteran actress Joke Silva, whom he married in 1989. The couple became one of Nigeria’s best-known entertainment partnerships.
Together, they established the Lufodo Group, with interests including film production, distribution and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.
Years of health-related concerns
Jacobs’ later years were accompanied by public concern over his health. In 2021, Joke Silva disclosed that he had been living with Lewy body dementia, while the family repeatedly dismissed false reports of his death before Wednesday’s confirmation.
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Unlike previous death rumours, the September 16 announcement came directly from his family.
The actor leaves behind a legacy spanning theatre, British television, Nigerian film and the development of the modern Nollywood industry.
Olu Jacobs was 84.
