𝑭𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑪𝒖𝒓𝒕𝒂𝒊𝒏 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑵𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒚𝒘𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝑳𝒆𝒈𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝑶𝒍𝒖 𝑱𝒂𝒄𝒐𝒃𝒔 𝒂𝒕 84

Nollywood has lost one of its greatest pillars. Veteran actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, known to millions as Olu Jacobs, has died at 84.

His family broke the news on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. In a statement shared by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Instagram, the family described him as a dear husband, father, grandfather and uncle, and as The Lion of Lufodo. They asked the public to respect their privacy as they mourn.

Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs fell in love with acting early in life while growing up in Kano. That passion took him to London, where he trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.

Long before Nollywood gained global attention, he was already making his mark abroad. He featured in popular British television series in the 1970s and 1980s and took on roles in international films, holding his own on stages where few Africans were seen at the time.

He later returned to Nigeria and became one of the most respected figures in the country's film industry. With his deep voice, calm presence and rare ability to bring dignity to every role, he became the face many Nigerians associated with royalty, wisdom and fatherhood on screen. His body of work covered more than 120 films and stage productions.

Beyond acting, he helped build the industry itself. Together with his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, he set up the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, a school that has trained a new generation of actors and filmmakers.

His contributions earned him major awards, including Best Actor in a Leading Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards in 2007, the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards in 2013, and the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011.

Since his death was announced, tributes have continued to pour in. President Bola Tinubu described him as a giant of the creative industry whose work shaped Nigeria's cultural identity. Colleagues and fans across the country have called him an institution and a true father of Nollywood.

For many Nigerians, Olu Jacobs was not just an actor. He was part of their growing up, a familiar voice and face that brought stories to life. He connected the old theatre tradition with the new Nollywood era and left a mark that will not fade.

He is survived by his wife, Joke Silva, children and grandchildren.