10 Things You Should Know About Late Veteran Nollywood Actor Olu Jacobs

The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, at the age of 84.

For decades, Jacobs captivated audiences with his commanding screen presence, distinctive voice, and remarkable acting ability, becoming one of the most respected figures in Nigeria’s theatre and film industry.

As tributes continue to pour in, here are 10 things to know about the late Nollywood legend:

1. His real name was Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs Although widely known as Olu Jacobs, the veteran actor’s full name was Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs. He became one of the most recognisable and respected faces in Nigerian entertainment.
2. He was born in KanoOlu Jacobs was born on July 11, 1942, in Kano, although his parents were from the Egba Alake area of Abeokuta, Ogun State.
3. Hubert Ogunde inspired his acting journeyJacobs developed an interest in acting at a young age. His passion for theatre was strengthened after he watched a performance by the legendary Nigerian dramatist Hubert Ogunde in Kano, an experience that influenced his decision to pursue acting professionally.
4. He trained at RADA in LondonJacobs travelled to the United Kingdom to pursue his passion and trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, one of the world’s renowned institutions for dramatic arts.
5. He had a successful career in British televisionBefore becoming a household name in Nigeria, Jacobs built an impressive career in British television and theatre. He featured in productions including The Goodies, Till Death Us Do Part, The Tomorrow People, and The Professionals, among others.
6. He became one of Nollywood’s most celebrated actorsAfter returning to Nigeria, Jacobs became a major force in the country’s film and television industry. Over the years, he featured in more than 100 films, portraying a wide range of characters and earning admiration from audiences across generations.
7. He was married to fellow acting legend Joke SilvaOlu Jacobs was married to renowned actress Joke Silva. The pair met through theatre and became one of Nigeria’s most celebrated entertainment couples. They got married in 1989 and built a family together.
8. His career earned him major honoursJacobs received several prestigious awards during his illustrious career, including the African Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF).
9. He was honoured for his contribution to the artsIn recognition of his contributions to Nigeria’s creative industry, Jacobs received a national honour from the Nigerian government. His career and influence helped shape the development of Nigerian theatre, television, and film.
10. Olu Jacobs died at 84The veteran actor died on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84. His death was announced by members of his family, bringing to an end the life and career of one of Nigeria’s most distinguished thespians.

His passing marks the loss of an actor whose work transcended generations. From the stage and British television to the Nigerian film industry, Olu Jacobs left an enduring legacy that will remain part of the history of African entertainment.