Pentouch 
Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
His son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced his death in a post on Instagram on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, famously known as Olu Jacobs was a legendary Nigerian actor and film executive who was born on July 11, 1942.
He was celebrated as one of the founding fathers of Nollywood, bridging the gap between classic international cinema and the Nigerian movie industry.
Born in Kano State, Nigeria, to parents from the Egba clan in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
His love for acting began after watching Hubert Ogunde’s annual concert party in Kano.
He moved to England and graduated from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London in 1966.
He started his career in the 1970s, starring in various British television series, stage productions, and international films like The Dogs of War.
He returned to Nigeria in the 1980s and starred in more than 200 films.
He was famous for playing wise father figures, kings, and traditional leaders with a powerful and distinct voice.
He was married to veteran actress Joke Silva for decades. Together, they co-founded the Lufodo Group and trained many young artists.
He won the Africa Movie Award for Best Actor in 2007 and received the National Honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
