From the stages of Britain to the heart of Nollywood, Olu Jacobs built a career that spanned more than five decades and generations of audiences.
Beyond the iconic roles, commanding voice, and unforgettable presence was an actor whose journey helped connect Nigerian theatre, television, and film to the wider world.
Here are 10 things to know about the life and legacy of one of Nigeria’s most celebrated actors whose death was announced on September 16, 2026.
1. He was born in Kano State
Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs was born on July 11, 1942, in Kano, although his roots are in the Egba Alake community of Abeokuta, Ogun State.
He was born on July 11, 1942, and is an indigene of Ogun State but spent his early life in Kano, schooled in Holy Trinity and was a member of the debating and drama societies where his interest in acting began.
2. Hubert Ogunde inspired him
He was inspired to take a shot at acting when he attended a performance by legendary Nigerian theatre practitioner Hubert Ogunde, which strengthened Jacobs’ decision to pursue acting professionally.
3. He trained in London
Olu Jacobs traveled abroad to study drama and studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, one of Britain’s leading drama schools.
4. He had a British TV career
Before becoming a Nollywood icon, he appeared in British television productions including The Goodies, The Dogs of War, The Professionals and The Tomorrow People.
5. He appeared in international films
His film credits included The Dogs of War (1980), Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend (1985) and Roman Polanski’s Pirates (1986).
6. He became a Nollywood institution
Over a career spanning more than five decades, Jacobs appeared in hundreds of theatre, television and film productions.
7. Kings became his signature roles
His commanding voice and presence made him particularly memorable as kings, chiefs, traditional rulers and patriarchs.
8. He won major acting honours
Jacobs won several awards in his lifetime for his acting skills. In 2007, he won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role and received other major industry honours, including the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016 and Nigeria’s national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) for his long service in the film industry.
9. He and Joke Silva built together
His marriage to fellow veteran actress Joke Silva became both a personal and professional partnership. Together, they founded the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.
10. His legacy goes beyond acting
From the British stage to international cinema and Nollywood, Olu Jacobs’ career connected theatre, television and film across generations, helping shape Nigeria’s modern acting tradition.
