Nollywood Mourns As Veteran Actor Olu Jacobs Dies At 84

PHOTO CREDIT: Gistlover / Olu Jacobs
Nollywood Mourns As Veteran Actor Olu Jacobs Dies At 84
The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran actor, Olu Jacobs.

Jacobs, whose commanding voice and regal screen presence made him one of Nollywood’s most respected figures, died at the age of 84. His family announced his passing, describing him as “The Lion of Lufodo.”

For over five decades, he brought to life kings, chiefs, fathers, politicians and villains — leaving behind a legacy that spanned theatre, television and film across two continents.

10 Things To Know About The Nollywood Legend

1. His full name: He was born Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs on July 11, 1942.

2. World-class training: Before fame in Nigeria, he trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London.

3. International career: Many younger fans didn’t know he had a thriving career in the UK. He featured in British TV classics like The Goodies, Barlow at Large, The Professionals, and The Tomorrow People, and in international films such as The Dogs of War, Pirates, and Ashanti.

4. Breakthrough in Nigeria: His lead role as a detective in the iconic NTA series Third Eye introduced him to a wider Nigerian audience after his return from the UK.

5. Nollywood’s favourite King: With his imposing stature and distinct delivery, he became Nollywood’s go-to for royal roles, earning the nickname “Igwe of Nollywood.”

6. Over 200 films: Jacobs starred in more than 200 home-video productions including Oloibiri, Vigilante, and The Royal Hibiscus Hotel, plus countless stage and TV productions.

7. Theatre icon: He was first and foremost a stage actor, with extensive theatre work in both Britain and Nigeria that shaped his powerful screen performances.

8. Award-winning: His excellence was recognised with the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 AMVCAs, and the AMAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.

9. Creative empire with Joke Silva: Alongside his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, he co-founded the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts to train the next generation of actors.

10. A bridge between generations: His career connects Nigeria’s old theatre tradition to modern Nollywood, inspiring several generations of actors.

His Most Memorable Roles

Whether as a crowned king, a village elder, or a stern but loving father, Olu Jacobs had a unique way of making every character unforgettable. His performances in films like Oloibiri and The Royal Hibiscus Hotel will continue to live in the hearts of millions who grew up watching him.

From the stages of London to NTA and the golden era of Nollywood, Olu Jacobs lived a full chapter of African entertainment history.
SOURCE: Gistlover