RismadarVoice Reporters
September 16, 2026
Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
His death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in an Instagram post on Wednesday.
Olusoji described the late actor as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, while paying tribute to his life and career.
He also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect the family’s privacy as they mourn their loss.
Olu Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most respected actors, with a career spanning several decades across theatre, television and film.
Born in Nigeria, Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London, where he developed his acting career and subsequently appeared in British television productions and international films.
He later returned to Nigeria and became a prominent figure in the country’s growing film industry, appearing in numerous productions and earning widespread recognition for his versatility and commanding performances.
Over the years, Jacobs received several industry honours, including the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa International Film Festival.
Beyond acting, he was involved in film production and arts development. Together with his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, he was associated with the Lufodo Group, which has played a role in Nigeria’s theatre and film industry.
Jacobs’ death comes after several false reports of his passing had circulated in previous years. In 2024, his family and the Actors Guild of Nigeria publicly dismissed similar reports as untrue.
