Veteran actor Olu Jacobs dies at 84
By KEMI KASUMU
Upon returning to Nigeria, he became a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, appearing in numerous productions and earning recognition for his versatility and commanding screen presence.
Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
Jacobs died on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, with his family confirming his death in a statement shared on social media.
His son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced the development on Instagram, describing the late actor as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle.
The family, which referred to him as “The Lion of Lufodo,” said it was grateful to God for his life and appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect its privacy during the mourning period.
Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs built a career spanning several decades across theatre, television and film. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before beginning a professional career that included stage performances, British television productions and international films.
Upon returning to Nigeria, he became a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, appearing in numerous productions and earning recognition for his versatility and commanding screen presence.
Jacobs also contributed to the development of Nigeria’s performing arts industry alongside his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva. They were associated with the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, which provided training opportunities for young talents in theatre and film.
His death marks the passing of a major figure whose career spanned generations of Nigeria’s theatre, television and film industries.
