Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84. His death was announced on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, who described him as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle and asked bloggers and social media influencers to respect the family’s privacy. The family’s announcement brings to an end the life of one of Nigeria’s most recognised performers, whose career extended across theatre, British television, international film and Nollywood, Vanguard News reported.
Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs developed his craft through theatre and formal training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London before appearing in British television productions and international films. He later became one of the defining figures of Nigeria’s modern film industry, building a career that spanned several decades and included acclaimed performances across stage, television and cinema. His work earned him major industry recognition, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007 and the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2013.
Beyond his performances, Jacobs played a broader role in the development of Nigeria’s creative economy. Together with his wife, fellow actor Joke Silva, he was associated with the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, extending his contribution into film production, distribution and professional training. He was also conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011. His career reflected the evolution of Nigerian entertainment from traditional theatre and television into a globally recognised film industry, while his work across British and Nigerian productions helped establish a bridge between African performers and international audiences.
Olu Jacobs leaves behind a body of work that extends beyond individual performances to a wider legacy of professional acting, creative enterprise and mentorship within Nigeria’s entertainment industry. Tributes have already begun to emerge from colleagues, including Funke Akindele, who described him as a “true legend” and praised his support for younger talent. For Nollywood, his passing marks the loss of a generation defining performer whose career helped shape the standards, visibility and institutional growth of Nigerian film and theatre.
