Olu Jacobs – born Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs on July 11, 1942 – died at the age of 84 on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. The actor’s death was confirmed by several Nigerian media outlets the same day.
Jacobs’ artistic journey began in his native Nigeria before he travelled to the United Kingdom, where he trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). He first appeared on stage in 1972 as The Boy in “A Taste of Honey” at Sheffield’s newly opened Crucible Theatre. The same decade saw him take roles in a range of British television series, including The Goodies, Till Death Do Us Apart, Barlow at Large, The Venturers, Angels, The Tomorrow People and The Professionals.
His film credentials span international titles such as The Dogs of War, Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend and Pirates, before he returned to Nigeria and became a cornerstone of the burgeoning Nollywood industry. Jacobs was renowned for portraying authoritative, sophisticated, and often complex characters, earning him a place among the most respected actors in Nigerian cinema.
In recognition of his contributions, Jacobs received the Nigerian national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011. He was also honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa International Film Festival in 2021. His legacy is further marked by his long‑standing partnership with fellow veteran actress Joke Silva, whom he married in 1989. The couple, who have two children, were one of Nigeria’s most celebrated celebrity couples.
Jacobs’ passing has prompted tributes from colleagues, fans and industry bodies across Nigeria and the diaspora. His career, spanning theatre, television and film, left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of both Britain and Nigeria.
While the cause of death has not yet been publicly disclosed, the Nigerian film community has begun to commemorate his life through memorial services and retrospective screenings of his most iconic roles. Fans are encouraged to share their memories on social media using the hashtag #RIPOluJacobs.
