Veteran Nigerian Legendary Actor and Theatre Icon, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.

His death was announced on Wednesday, 16th September, 2026, by his family, including his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, and their son, Jacobs Jnr.

In a statement announcing the death, the family described the celebrated actor as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, while paying tribute to his remarkable life and career.

The statement read:

“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.”

Jacobs, who was born on July 11, 1942, celebrated his 84th birthday on 11th July, 2026.

His death marks the end of a remarkable career that established him as one of Nigeria’s most respected actors and prominent figures in the African entertainment industry.

Known for his commanding screen presence, distinctive voice and versatility, Jacobs became a familiar face to generations of Nigerian and African audiences.

Over the years, he built a reputation for taking on a wide range of roles, bringing depth and authority to his performances across stage and screen.

Beyond his acting career, Jacobs was also widely regarded as one of the influential figures in the development and growth of Nigeria’s professional theatre and film industry.

His contribution to the arts earned him national recognition, including the title of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).

The actor’s passing is expected to generate tributes from colleagues, filmmakers, theatre practitioners, fans and other members of Nigeria’s creative community who have followed his career over the decades.

For many Nigerians, Jacobs represented an important generation of actors whose work helped shape the country’s modern entertainment industry.

His death leaves behind a legacy spanning generations, with his performances and contribution to Nigerian theatre and film remaining an important part of the country’s entertainment history.

He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before embarking on a career that included appearances in British television productions and international films.

He later became one of the defining figures of Nigeria’s film industry, appearing in numerous Nigerian productions and earning recognition for his commanding screen presence and versatility.

His career spanned more than five decades, during which he received several major honours, including the African Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role and Lifetime Achievement honours.

In 2011, Jacobs was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in recognition of his contribution to the Nigerian film industry.

Jacobs and Silva were married for decades and jointly established the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, contributing not only to film and television but also to developing and training performing artists in Nigeria.

In 2007, Jacobs won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role.

He received the Industry Merit Award for outstanding achievements in acting at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.

He was conferred the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011.