By Stephen Simon
Legendary Nollywood actor and respected film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has passed away at the age of 84.
His death was announced in an official family statement shared by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. Describing the late patriarch as “The Lion of Lufodo,” the family expressed gratitude for his life while requesting privacy from the public, media, and social media commentators during their period of mourning.
“It is with gratitude to God for a life well lived and fought, that we announce the passing of our dear husband, father, grandfather and uncle,” the statement read. “We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time.”
Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs enjoyed an illustrious artistic career spanning more than five decades across international stage, television, and film. After receiving formal training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, he featured in several British television shows and international feature films before returning to Nigeria in the 1980s.
Upon his return, Jacobs became a foundational pillar and driving force behind the growth of modern Nigerian cinema (Nollywood). Famed for his commanding screen presence, resonant voice, and iconic portrayals of royal monarchs and father figures, he earned numerous prestigious accolades. Among these were the Africa Movie Academy Award (AMAA) for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, the AMVCA Industry Merit Award in 2013, and the national honor of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) conferred on him in 2011.
Alongside his wife of nearly four decades, veteran actress Joke Silva, Jacobs co-founded the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, nurturing generations of Nigerian creative talent.
In his final years, the screen legend stepped back from public life following a diagnosis of Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB), a progressive neurodegenerative condition. Tributes from across the global film industry, political sphere, and fan base continue to pour in, celebrating the towering legacy of an actor who helped define Nigerian cinema.
