Veteran Nollywood Actor Olu Jacobs Dies At 84

Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84, his family announced on Wednesday.

His son, Olusoji Jacobs, confirmed the news in an Instagram post on September 16, 2026. The family described the late actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and expressed gratitude for a life well lived, while urging bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy during this period.

Jacobs, born on July 11, 1942, was one of Nollywood’s most respected figures. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and began his career in British television before becoming a defining presence in Nigerian theatre, film and television. He appeared in more than 100 films and was widely recognised for his commanding portrayals of kings, chiefs and authority figures.

He was married to fellow actress Joke Silva since 1989. The couple co-founded the Lufodo Group, which includes film production and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts. In recent years, Jacobs had been living with Lewy body dementia.

The family said he is survived by his wife and sons. Tributes have begun pouring in from across the Nigerian entertainment industry following the announcement.