16/09/2026
OLU JACOBS: THE LIFE, LOVE AND LEGACY OF A NOLLYWOOD LEGEND
Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, was born on July 11, 1942, and became one of Nigeria’s most respected actors and film executives. Born in Kano to parents of Egba Alake heritage, Jacobs developed an early interest in drama and debating. His passion for acting was strengthened after watching the legendary theatre practitioner Hubert Ogunde perform in Kano, an experience that inspired him to pursue acting professionally. He later travelled to Britain and trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London.
Before becoming a household name in Nollywood, Jacobs had already built an impressive career in British theatre and television. He appeared in productions including The Goodies, Till Death Us Do Part, The Tomorrow People and The Professionals. He also featured in international films such as The Dogs of War, Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend and Roman Polanski’s Pirates. His early international experience established him as a professionally trained actor long before the Nigerian home-video industry evolved into what is now known globally as Nollywood.
Jacobs returned to Nigeria in 1990 and quickly became a major figure in the country's emerging television and film industry. He gained widespread recognition through the NTA detective series The Third Eye, where he played Inspector Best Idafa. From there, he went on to appear in more than 100 Nigerian films, portraying kings, politicians, fathers, traditional rulers, businessmen and other powerful characters. His deep voice, commanding presence and versatility made him one of the most recognisable faces of Nigerian cinema and earned him a place among the veteran actors who helped shape Nollywood.
Throughout his career, Olu Jacobs received several major honours for his contribution to African cinema. He won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, received the Nigerian national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011, and was later honoured with the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Africa Movie Academy Awards. His career therefore extended beyond entertainment into a lasting contribution to the development and professionalisation of Nigeria’s film industry.
Beyond the screen, Olu Jacobs’ personal life was closely connected to another giant of Nigerian entertainment, veteran actress Joke Silva. The two met through theatre and were married in 1989, remaining husband and wife until his death. Together, they built a family and established the Lufodo Group, which has interests in film production, distribution and the training of performers through the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts. Their marriage became one of the most recognised partnerships in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
On September 16, 2026, Olu Jacobs died at the age of 84, with the announcement coming from his family through his son, Olusoji Jacobs. His family described him as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, and paid tribute to him as the “Lion of Lufodo.” His death brought to a close a career spanning more than five decades across theatre, British television, international cinema and Nollywood. Olu Jacobs leaves behind not only a remarkable body of work but also a legacy that continues through the actors, filmmakers and audiences influenced by his extraordinary journey.
REST IN PEACE GREAT LEGEND OLU JACOBS.
Pen down your word of commiserations with the family in the comment section or what he will be remembered for. RIP.
