Nollywood legend Olu Jacobs dies at 84

Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, was a legendary Nigerian actor, film executive, and widely recognized godfather of Nollywood. 

Known for his commanding stage presence, deep baritone voice, and masterful interpretation of royal and patriarch roles, he is celebrated as one of the most influential African actors of all time.

Early Life & International Career

Born on July 11, 1942, in Kano, Nigeria, to parents from Abeokuta, Jacobs' passion for acting was sparked as a child by seeing the legendary Hubert Ogunde’s traveling concert party. In 1964, he traveled to the United Kingdom, where he trained classically at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London.

Before returning to Nigeria, he built a successful international career throughout the 1970s and 1980s, starring in British TV series like The Professionals and Till Death Us Do Part, as well as international films like The Dogs of War (1980) and Roman Polanski’s Pirates (1986).

Nollywood Pillar & Business

Upon returning to Nigeria, Jacobs became a foundational pillar of Nollywood, starring in over 200 productions and acting as a bridge between old and new generations of filmmakers. Alongside his wife, fellow legendary actress Joke Silva, he founded the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts to train future generations of African talent.

Awards & Legacy

Over his five-decade career, he received numerous accolades, including:

Best Actor in a Leading Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) in 2007.

The AMVCA Industry Merit Award in 2013.

The National Honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.

Later Years & Passing

In his final years, Jacobs battled Lewy body dementia, a condition his family openly shared to raise awareness. Olu Jacobs passed away at the age of 84 on September 16, 2026, leaving behind a monumental legacy that fundamentally shaped African cinema.