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Veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
Jacobs’ death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Instagram on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
The family described the actor as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, while asking the public and social media users to respect their privacy at the time of mourning.
In the announcement, Olusoji wrote: “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.
Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs (MFR)
11/07/1942–16/09/2026
We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our families privacy at this time.”
Jacobs, who was born on July 11, 1942, built a career spanning stage, television and film, both in Britain and Nigeria.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London and appeared in a number of British television productions before establishing himself as one of Nigeria’s most recognisable actors.
His international acting credits included appearances in productions such as The Goodies, Till Death Us Do Part, The Tomorrow People, The Professionals and the films The Dogs of War, Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend and Pirates.
After returning to Nigeria, Jacobs became a prominent figure in the country’s theatre and film industry.
He featured in numerous Nigerian productions, including the television series The Third Eye, and later became a familiar face in Nollywood films.
His career earned him several honours, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role.
He was also recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award and received the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
Beyond acting, Jacobs was involved in the development of Nigeria’s film and performing arts industry.
He co-founded the Lufodo Group with his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, with interests including film production, distribution and performing arts training.
Jacobs’ death comes after years in which his health and absence from the public spotlight attracted considerable attention.
His death had also been falsely reported on social media on previous occasions before Wednesday’s announcement by his family.
The latest announcement from his family provides the confirmation of his death and marks the end of the life of an actor whose career stretched across several decades and multiple stages of the Nigerian and international entertainment industries.
