16/09/2026
Veteran Nollywood Actor Olu Jacobs Dies at 84
Veteran Nigerian actor Olu Jacobs, one of the most respected figures in Nollywood and African cinema, has died at the age of 84.
His death was announced on Instagram by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
In a statement announcing the death, Olusoji described his father as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, while paying tribute to his remarkable life and career.
“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.”
The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn the veteran actor.
“We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time.”
A Career Spanning More Than Five Decades
Born in 1942, Olu Jacobs built a remarkable acting career spanning more than five decades, working in both the United Kingdom and Nigeria.
He trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London before appearing in several British television productions, including The Goodies and The Professionals, as well as international film productions.
Jacobs returned to Nigeria in the 1980s and became one of the pioneers and most recognisable faces of the Nigerian film industry.
Throughout his career, he became particularly known for portraying authoritative traditional rulers, fathers, community leaders and other influential characters.
His performances earned him widespread recognition and made him a household name across Nigeria and beyond.
Battle With Illness
In 2021, his wife of nearly four decades, veteran actress Joke Silva, publicly revealed that Jacobs had been diagnosed with Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB), a progressive neurological condition.
His health challenges also led to several false reports about his death over the years, which the family had previously been forced to dismiss.
A Lasting Legacy
Olu Jacobs and Joke Silva were not only partners in life but also in the creative industry. The couple co-founded Lufodo Group, a media and performing arts company that contributed to the development of Nigeria’s entertainment industry and supported emerging creative talents.
Jacobs’ contribution to Nigerian theatre, television and film earned him numerous honours throughout his career.
In 2011, he was conferred with the Nigerian national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). He also received the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards.
With a career that crossed generations and borders, Olu Jacobs leaves behind a significant legacy in African entertainment.
