Veteran Nollywood Actor Olu Jacobs Dies At 84
Legendary Nigerian actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, MFR, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has passed away at the age of 84.
His death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in a statement shared on Instagram on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
The family described the late actor as _“The Lion of Lufodo”_ and said it was _“with gratitude to God for a life well lived and fought”_ that they announced his passing. The statement listed his dates as July 11, 1942 – September 16, 2026 and asked the public, particularly bloggers and social media influencers, to respect the family’s privacy at this time.
A Legacy Spanning Decades
Olu Jacobs was one of the most recognisable and respected figures in Nigerian theatre, television and film.
Born in 1942, he trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before appearing in British television productions and international films. He later became a pillar of Nigeria’s film industry.
With a career spanning over 5 decades, he featured in more than 130 Nollywood movies, including _Ashanti, The Dogs of War, Pirates, Violet,_ and _The Royal Hibiscus Hotel_. His deep, resonant voice and commanding screen presence made him a favorite among fans and colleagues alike.
He won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007 and was honoured with the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 AMVCAs for his outstanding contributions. In 2011 he received the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic, MFR national honour.
Alongside his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, he co-founded the Lufodo Group, involved in film production, distribution and training of performers. The couple married in 1989 and had two children.
His passing comes barely two months after he marked his 84th birthday in July, when Joke Silva celebrated him as _“Sir J, The Lion of Lufodo”_.
Tributes Pour In
News of his demise has drawn reactions from colleagues and fans across the industry who describe him as a mentor, role model, and _“one of the most influential African actors of all time”_.
The Actors Guild of Nigeria and family members had debunked several death rumours about the actor in past years. This time, the family’s official announcement confirms the veteran has gone to rest.
Pause TV News extends heartfelt condolences to Mama Joke Silva, the Jacobs family, the Nollywood community, and fans worldwide.
May the soul of _The Lion of Lufodo_ rest in peace.
For more updates on this developing story, stay with Pause TV News.