Veteran Nigerian Actor Olu Jacobs Dies at 84

Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs, known professionally as Olu Jacobs, a veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, has died at age 84. His death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Instagram on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. The family described him as "The Lion of Lufodo" and requested privacy from media and social media influencers during their mourning period.

Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and began his career in British television during the 1970s. He appeared in numerous British television productions and international films before returning to Nigeria in the 1980s, where he became a defining figure in Nollywood. Over his career, he appeared in more than 100 films and was recognised for his commanding performances across both British and Nigerian entertainment industries.

Jacobs' achievements included winning the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards, and the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. He was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011. Alongside his wife, fellow veteran actress Joke Silva, whom he married in 1989, he established the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, contributing significantly to theatre, television, and film development in Nigeria.

In recent years, Jacobs lived with Lewy body dementia, a neurodegenerative condition that affected his active involvement in the film industry. His wife disclosed the condition publicly in a 2021 interview, noting he had been managing it for years. Despite rumours of his death circulating in 2021 and 2024, his family had confirmed he was alive until his passing this week. He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.