Olu Jacobs: Veteran Nollywood Actor Dies at 84, Family Confirms
Veteran Nollywood actor Olu Jacobs has died aged 84, his family confirmed, as tributes honour ‘The Lion of Lufodo’ and his family’s plea for privacy amid grief.
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Nollywood has lost one of its most iconic voices. Veteran Nigerian actor Olu Jacobs passed away on Wednesday, 16 September 2026, at the age of 84.
His family confirmed the news, with his wife, celebrated actress Joke Silva, and their son Olusoji Jacobs sharing the heartbreaking announcement publicly.
Born Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs on July 11, 1942, the actor built a remarkable career that stretched across British television, theatre and the Nigerian film industry.
He was affectionately known throughout the entertainment world as "The Lion of Lufodo," a title that reflected both his commanding screen presence and the deep respect he commanded among peers and fans alike.
Jacobs launched his acting journey on the international stage before returning to Nigeria , where he became a defining figure in the rise of Nollywood.
Over several decades, he appeared in numerous memorable productions, earning industry honours and awards that cemented his place as one of Nigeria's most influential entertainers.
His performances were marked by a gravitas and depth that few could match, making him a benchmark for excellence in African cinema and theatre.
His union with Joke Silva was equally legendary. The two were widely regarded as one of Nollywood's most beloved couples, having been married for decades and remaining a symbol of love and commitment within the industry.
The news of Jacobs' passing carries an added layer of poignancy, given that reports of his death had circulated for years before this confirmation.
On multiple occasions, his family and representatives had been forced to speak out against rumours claiming he had passed on.
Joke Silva in particular had addressed questions surrounding her husband's health and the persistent false reports, defending his dignity each time speculation resurfaced.
The family, in announcing his death, appealed to bloggers and social media users to respect their privacy as they grieve and make arrangements to lay him to rest.
Olu Jacobs leaves behind a towering legacy in Nigerian film and theatre. For generations of audiences and aspiring actors, he was not simply a performer but an institution, a living link to the earliest chapters of Nollywood's story.
His passing marks the end of an era that shaped Nigerian entertainment as the world knows it today.
DanVictor Munene (Entertainment editor)
Danvictor is a journalist accredited by the Media Council of Kenya (MCK), currently covering entertainment news at Tuko.co.ke. He began his career at The Star Kenya, where he extensively covered the 2024 Gen-Z led anti-government protests. He has work experience in political news, current affairs, social media management, and audience engagement.
You can reach him at danvictor.munene@tuko.co.ke to share your story.