Veteran Nigerian actor Olu Jacobs dies at 84, marking the loss of one of Nollywood’s most respected figures.
His family confirmed his death on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. His son, Olusoji Jacobs, shared the announcement on Instagram and described the actor as the “Lion of Lufodo.”
The family said Jacobs was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle. They also asked bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy while they mourn.
Jacobs was born on July 11, 1942, and celebrated his 84th birthday earlier this year.
Olu Jacobs Built a Remarkable Acting Career
Jacobs built a career that stretched across theatre, television and film.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London before beginning a professional career in Britain. He appeared in British television productions and international films during the 1970s and 1980s.
His international film credits included The Dogs of War, Pirates and Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend.
After returning to Nigeria, Jacobs became one of the most recognisable faces in the country’s growing film industry.
The Actor Became a Nollywood Icon
Jacobs appeared in more than 100 films during a career spanning several decades.
His commanding screen presence made him a familiar figure to generations of Nigerian movie fans. He also became known for playing authoritative and complex characters.
His work helped connect Nigeria’s established theatre tradition with the expanding Nollywood film industry.
Jacobs received the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007. He also won an Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and a lifetime achievement award in 2016.
Olu Jacobs and Joke Silva Built Lufodo
Away from acting, Jacobs also worked as a producer and stage director.
He and his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, co-founded the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.
The couple became one of Nigeria’s best-known partnerships in the performing arts. Together, they also helped nurture younger talent in the country’s entertainment industry.
In 2011, Nigeria honoured Jacobs with the national award of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) for his contribution to the arts.
Nollywood Stars Pay Tribute
News of Jacobs’ death prompted tributes from across Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele described him as a true legend and praised his willingness to support and encourage younger performers.
She also extended her condolences to Joke Silva, the Jacobs family and the wider Nigerian film community.
Many other colleagues and fans have also remembered Jacobs for his long contribution to Nigerian theatre, television and cinema.
Family Requests Privacy
The Jacobs family has asked the public to give them space as they deal with their loss.
The family announcement did not provide details of funeral arrangements. As a result, information about a memorial or burial has yet to be officially announced.
The family’s request for privacy comes after years of false reports about the actor’s death had circulated online.
This time, however, his family has officially confirmed the news.
A Lasting Legacy in African Cinema
Olu Jacobs leaves behind a career that crossed borders and generations.
From British theatre and television to international cinema and Nollywood, he built a body of work that made him a major figure in African entertainment.
His contribution extended beyond acting through his work in theatre production, education and talent development.
As Nollywood mourns, the Olu Jacobs dies news marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Nigerian entertainment. His performances and influence will continue to shape how audiences remember one of the industry’s most celebrated veterans.
