Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, professionally known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84
His son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced the actor’s death in an Instagram post he shared on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
Olusoji wrote: “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 Lion of Lufodo.”
However, while requesting social media bloggers and influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn, the family said: “We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time.”
Born in 1942, Jacobs’ legendary career spanned more than five decades across the United Kingdom and Nigeria. The elder Statesman, whose industry watchers have variously described him as one of “Nollywood’s Best” and the “godfathers of Nollywood”, along with Chief Pete Edochie, began his career starring in several British television series and international films.
After training at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, his early screen credits included British television classics such as “The Goodies” and “The Professionals,” alongside international film appearances.
He worked as an actor for most of his life, returning to Nigeria in the 1980s to help pioneer the booming Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, where he built an enduring legacy playing authoritative monarchs and beloved father figures.
The Health Challenge
Behind his celebrated artistic career lay a severe personal health battle in his final years and in 2021, his wife of nearly four decades, veteran actress Joke Silva, revealed that Jacobs had been diagnosed with Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB), a progressive neurodegenerative condition.
The diagnosis ended years during which the family repeatedly had to debunk false internet rumors surrounding his health.
A Legacy Of Artistry
Throughout his later years, industry colleagues and admirers routinely reflected on the deep bond between Jacobs and his wife. Together, the couple co-founded Lufodo Group, a media and performing arts firm that helped groom generations of Nigerian creative talent.
Speaking candidly in past interviews about his cognitive decline, Joke Silva had described the emotional weight of caring for a partner facing dementia while holding on to their shared history.
“It’s been hard on him because he doesn’t understand everything that is going on, and hard on the family,” she previously shared during a television interview addressing his health. “I miss the times we worked together, but we remain deeply grateful for every clear, beautiful moment we have.”
His Awards
In 2007, Jacobs won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. He also received the Industry Merit Award for outstanding achievements in acting at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.
The legendary actor was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
