Veteran Nigerian actor Olu Jacobs, born Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
His death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in an Instagram post on Wednesday, September 16.
Confirming the news, the family described the actor as “our dear husband, father, grandfather and uncle,” and gave him the tribute title “The Lion of Lufodo.”
“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 family wrote, appealing to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy during this period.
Jacobs, who trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in England, built a career spanning more than five decades across theatre, television and film. He worked with several British repertory theatres and appeared in international television productions before becoming one of the most recognisable faces in Nollywood, often referred to as one of the industry’s “godfathers” alongside fellow veteran Pete Edochie.
In 2007, he won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. He was married to actress Joke Silva.
He is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.
