Nollywood Legend Olu Jacobs Dies at 84

Veteran actor and film executive, Oludotun Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.

His death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in a post shared on Instagram on Wednesday.

"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," he wrote, adding, "We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family's privacy at this time."

Olu Jacobs, born on July 11, 1942, built a career spanning theatre, television, and film, establishing himself as one of Nigeria's most prominent veteran actors. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London and featured in several British television productions before returning to Nigeria, where he went on to become a major figure in Nollywood.

Jacobs starred in more than 100 films throughout his career and received numerous honours, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, and the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.

He was married to fellow veteran actress Joke Silva, with whom he co-founded the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.

Olu Jacobs' passing marks the end of a decades-long career defined by remarkable contributions to Nigerian theatre, television, and film.